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Originally Posted On: https://bippermedia.com/the-different-penalties-for-child-neglect-charges/

It is estimated that at least 1 in 7 children have been neglected in the United States at some point in their lives. This is likely even higher, as many cases of child neglect go unreported. Child neglect is a severe problem with lifelong consequences for the victims. No state tolerates child neglect, and all have laws making it a criminal offense. Penalties depend on the degree of the crime and other factors. But first, let’s define child neglect before we discuss the specific penalties.

An Overview of Child Neglect

Child neglect is a form of child abuse in which a parent or caregiver fails to provide for a child’s basic needs. This can include physical needs like food, shelter, and clothing, as well as emotional needs like love, support, and attention. In some cases, neglect can also involve physical or emotional abuse.

According to the Florida Statutes, child neglect is when a caregiver fails or refuses to give safety, security, and services to a child under their care. This means the caregiver does not provide for the child’s physical or mental health. 

Neglect can be either active or passive. Active neglect occurs when a parent or caregiver deliberately withholds necessary care from a child. On the other hand, passive neglect happens when a parent or caregiver simply fails to provide adequate care out of ignorance or carelessness.

The effects of child neglect can be just as damaging as those of other forms of child abuse. Developmental delays, behavioral problems, and physical and mental health issues are more prevalent in neglected children. They’re also at a greater risk of being involved in juvenile delinquency and becoming victims of abuse themselves as adults.

Child neglect is often difficult to prosecute because it can be hard to prove that the parent or caregiver intended to harm the child. However, even if there was no intent to harm, the consequences of neglect can be just as serious for the child as if there had been.

Penalties for Child Neglect in Florida

While all states have laws making child neglect a crime, the specifics of those laws vary from state to state. The types of neglect that are covered and the penalties that are associated with them can differ significantly.

The penalties for child neglect depend on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction in which it was committed. But here are the types of child neglect charges and their penalties in Florida.

Child Neglect Without Aggravating Factors

It indicates that the child suffered no significant physical or emotional harm due to the neglect. If you are convicted of this third-degree felony, the maximum sentence is five (5) years of imprisonment, five (5) years of probation, and a $5,000 fine.

As you can see, a judge has the discretion to sentence someone found guilty of child neglect to probation or the statutory maximum of five years in prison.

Child Neglect Great Bodily Harm

This is a more severe charge, meaning that the neglect resulted in great bodily harm, disability, or disfigurement to the child. The maximum penalty for this second-degree felony is fifteen (15) years in prison, fifteen (15) years of probation, and a $10,000 fine.

A judge must sentence a person guilty of child neglect resulting in great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement to a minimum of 24 to 51 months in prison. Still, they may receive a sentence of up to 15 years if there are sufficient grounds for a downward departure from the law.

How The Penalties Are Assessed

The severity of the neglect, the length of time it lasted, and the age of the child are all taken into consideration when determining the penalties for child neglect. As shown above, the penalties may also be increased if the neglect results in serious injury or death.

The first step in assessing the penalties for child neglect is to determine whether the act was intentional or negligent. Intentional acts of child neglect are more serious and often result in harsher punishments.

The next step is to consider the age of the child. Neglecting a newborn baby is much more serious than neglecting a teenager and typically results in harsher consequences. The severity of the neglect is also taken into consideration. If a child was neglected to the point of severe malnutrition or dehydration, that would be considered more severe than if they were simply neglected in terms of basic hygiene.

Finally, the length of time the child was neglected is also a factor. A one-time act of neglect will typically result in less severe penalties than repeated or prolonged acts of neglect.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer for Child Neglect Charges

Child neglect is a serious offense that can result in harsh penalties, including prison time, loss of custody, and placement on a child abuse registry. The specific penalties will vary by state but will be based on factors such as the child’s age, the severity of the neglect, and the length of time the child was neglected. 

Suppose you have been accused of child neglect. In this situation, you must consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can explain the charges and possible penalties you face. To defend your rights in this complicated area of law, you will need a skilled advocate on your side.

If you or someone you know has been accused of child neglect, get in touch with our attorneys at Hanlon Law in Clearwater to discuss your case. Our team is skilled in handling child neglect and abuse cases, and we always work with our clients to produce the best possible outcome of the case.  

Contact us today to set up a free consultation, and let’s discuss the possible defenses available for your specific case. 

Hanlon Law
600 Cleveland St #1100
Clearwater, FL 33755
(727) 897-5413
https://www.criminalattorneyclearwater.net