Philadelphia Child Abuse Lawyers

A recent act by a perpetrator which causes non-accidental serious physical injury to a child is considered child abuse.  A “child” is considered anyone under the age of 18.  The definition of abuse can be extended to include any serious mental or sexual injury, physical neglect by a perpetrator that results in prolonged periods without supervision, or any recent act that creates a risk of serious physical or emotional injury to or sexual abuse or exploitation of a child.

There are many types of abuse including physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, substance abuse by parent, sexual exploitation, and abandonment.  The effects of physical abuse can be seen as harm done to the child’s body such as kicking, punching, and biting.  Emotional abuse deals with the child reporting a feeling of depression or anxiety due to neglect.  Abuse caused by neglect can be defined as a responsible adult not providing the necessary means for a child to live a healthy life, such as clothing, food, and shelter.  If a caregiver of a child is participating in any type of illegal drug activity in the presence of a child this can be considered substance abuse by a parent.  Sexual exploitation includes the child being forced to participate in some form of prostitution or pornography.  If a parent or caregiver leaves a child that is supposed to be in their care for any reason this can be considered abandonment of said child.

Written by Michael Kotik lawyer at legalphilly.com