Former Prosecutors Fighting for Your Rights
Allegations of child abuse can throw your life off track, exposing you not only to possible imprisonment but also loss of custody or visitation rights. At Patituce & Associates, LLC, we fight for parents, educators, caregivers, and others who have been accused of child abuse in Ohio. If you have been accused of abusing, neglecting, or mistreating a child in any way, we are the firm you want on your side to defend your rights. Founded by two former prosecutors who understand the intricacies of both sides of criminal proceedings, our Cleveland criminal defense firm has what it takes to defend clients against complicated and often emotionally charged child abuse and endangerment cases.
Take this opportunity to find out how our team can help. Call our Cleveland child abuse defense attorneys today at( 440) 471-7784 for a confidential consultation.
Child Abuse & Endangerment in Cleveland, OH
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, is 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 the health or safety of a child by violating a duty of care, support, or protection.
§ 2919.22 specifically prohibits:
- Abusing or torturing a child
- Corporal punishment (in a cruel or extreme manner)
- Repeated disciplinary measures that endanger a child’s mental health or development
- Allowing, enticing, or coercing a child to participate in sexually-oriented or obscene material
- Allowing a child to be near a place where illegal drug manufacturing is occurring
- DUI/OVI with a minor in the vehicle
In our experience, some cases of alleged child abuse or endangerment involve misinterpretations and exaggerations. Others involve outright lies and wrongful accusations made out of anger or even in an underhanded attempt to gain custody. Parents and people who work with children on a regular basis may be in danger of facing allegations of child abuse or endangerment through no fault or misconduct of their own. In these situations, factual innocence may not be enough to avoid facing criminal charges. It takes a powerful attorney to present the other side of the story.
Involve a Cleveland Child Abuse Defense Attorney
As Cleveland child abuse defense lawyers, we at Patituce & Associates, LLC are committed to fighting for those who have been accused of abuse, endangerment, or neglect. From cases involving DUI with a minor in the vehicle to complex matters involving corporal punishment, we understand how Ohio investigates and prosecutes these crimes. We use this knowledge to develop strong, intelligent defense strategies and then fight for the outcome our clients deserve.
Child abuse and endangerment can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the offense itself, whether it was allegedly repeated, and the extent of the alleged injury. If convicted, you could face jail or prison time, heavy fines, community service, and more. A conviction for excessive corporal punishment causing serious injury, for example, is a second-degree felony punishable by 2 to 8 years in prison. You must act quickly to protect your freedom.
Contact Patituce & Associates to discuss your case and how our Cleveland child abuse defense attorneys can defend you.