Cleveland Child Abuse & Endangerment Attorneys
Defending Against Child Abuse Allegations in Ohio
Allegations of child abuse are among the most serious accusations you can face. Child abuse and child endangerment cases often move quickly and involve not only criminal prosecutors, but also Ohio Child Protective Services (CPS) and possibly the juvenile court system. A single allegation can put your freedom, your family relationships, and your parental rights at risk.
At Patituce & Associates, we represent people throughout Cleveland and Cuyahoga County who are accused of child abuse and related domestic violence offenses. Our legal team approaches these cases with care, discretion, and a commitment to protecting our clients’ rights while navigating both the criminal justice system and any CPS involvement.
We understand how emotionally charged these matters can be, so we work to provide clear guidance and strong advocacy throughout the process. Founded by former prosecutors who understand both sides of criminal proceedings, our law firm has what it takes to defend clients against child abuse and endangerment charges.
Have you been accused of abusing a child in Cleveland, Ohio? Call Patituce & Associates today at (440) 771-1175 for a free consultation.
Ohio Child Abuse & Endangerment Laws
The Ohio Revised Code (ORC) addresses child abuse in two separate sections.
The first, ORC § 2151.031, defines an “abused child” as one who has been the victim of sexual activity or who has been endangered, exhibits evidence of physical or mental injury (other than accidental), or has suffered a mental or physical injury because of the acts of their parents, guardian, or custodian.
The second, ORC § 2919.22, defines “endangering children” as creating a substantial risk to a child's health or safety by violating a duty of care, support, or protection.
We understand that your specific situation requires individualized attention, and we are dedicated to providing just that.
No Case is Hopeless
We Don't Back Down. Ever.
Explore some of our recent wins.
-
Case Dismissed CLEVELAND V. AL-NAZER (2012 TRC 040781)
Our client was accused of driving while under the influence of drugs, or alcohol.
-
Not Guilty At Trial ROCKY RIVER V. D.F.
Client was charged with domestic violence against his wife.
-
Plea and Record Expunged STATE V. BAILEY, CUYAHOGA
Client was accused of stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of property.
-
Charges Dismissed State v. Beckwith, Cuyahoga County
Student charged with the manufacturing of ecstasy.
-
Case Dismissed STATE V. J.S. (A JUVENILE) YOUNGSTOWN
Local counsel pushed for a plea to one of the sex related charges.
-
Acquittal State v. Tevin Biles
Client was identified as one of the alleged shooters at a New Year’s Eve party.
Degrees of Child Abuse & Potential Criminal Penalties
Child abuse-related charges in Ohio range in severity depending on the alleged conduct, the extent of injury, and whether there is a pattern of abusive behavior.
Possible child abuse charges in Ohio include:
- First-degree misdemeanor child endangerment if the accused person’s actions recklessly place a child at substantial risk of serious harm or mental injury. Penalties may include up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
- Fourth-degree felony child endangerment if the accused person’s neglect or abandonment of a child resulted in serious physical harm or mental injury, or if the accused would be charged with first-degree misdemeanor child endangerment but already has prior child abuse-related convictions. Penalties may include 6 months (mandatory) to 18 months in prison, a $5,000 fine, and up to 5 years of probation.
- Third-degree felony child endangerment if the accused person’s actions, with a focus on intentional wrongdoing or egregious negligence, resulted in serious physical injury or mental harm to a child. Penalties may include 1 to 5 years in prison, a $10,000 fine, and up to 5 years of probation.
- Second-degree felony or higher if the accused person’s actions involved intentional abuse, violence, torture, or cruelty, and resulted in serious physical injury or mental injury to a child. Penalties may include 2 years (mandatory) to 8 years in prison, a $15,000 fine, and up to 5 years of probation.
A conviction can also have lasting consequences for employment, professional licenses, and housing, as well as custody rights defined by a family court. Even when criminal charges are reduced or dismissed, CPS findings can continue independently, which is why you should work with a law firm that understands both systems.
Ohio Child Protective Services (CPS)
In many child abuse cases, Ohio Child Protective Services (CPS), operated through county agencies under the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), becomes involved early, sometimes before criminal charges are even filed.
CPS involvement may include:
- Interviews with parents, caregivers, and children
- Home visits and safety assessments
- Temporary custody or supervision plans
- Referrals to juvenile court
- Ongoing case monitoring or service requirements
What many people do not realize is that statements made to CPS can later be used in criminal proceedings. CPS investigations follow different rules from criminal cases, but their findings can strongly influence how prosecutors proceed with child abuse and endangerment charges.
Our legal team is highly experienced in navigating Ohio CPS procedures, understanding how CPS operates, and protecting clients during interviews and investigations. We are here to uphold your rights while also addressing CPS concerns strategically.
Take the Next Step to Protect Your Rights – Call Now
If you are under investigation or have been accused of child abuse in Cleveland, it is important to act quickly. Early legal representation allows us to get to work that much sooner.
Depending on what has already happened in the case against you, we might be able to protect your rights during questioning and guide interactions with CPS. Our goal is to protect your rights and reputation at every step, so you can uphold your name and stay a part of your child’s life.
At Patituce & Associates, we are always ready to stand by you. Contact our Cleveland child abuse lawyers today. Call (440) 771-1175 to begin.
-
We Know the Legal System
Our criminal defense attorneys understand the legal system and local courts, helping you navigate your case efficiently and avoid costly mistakes.
-
We Give You Peace of Mind
Being charged with a crime is overwhelming. With our team on your side, you can focus on your life while an experienced professional handles your defense.
-
We Fight For Your Rights
Police and prosecutors sometimes push the limits of the law. We work to protect your rights and prevent unconstitutional evidence from being used against you.
-
We Build A Strategic Defense
Fighting criminal charges requires a strong strategy. Our experienced team builds a defense tailored to the specific facts of your case.
-
We Work to Mitigate Consequences
One of the main benefits of hiring our Ohio criminal defense attorneys is our ability to help reduce the potential consequences of a conviction.
