Criminal Defense Lawyers

Aggravated Child Abuse Lawyers

Aggravated Child Abuse Lawyers: Protecting the Rights of Parents and Children

What Constitutes Aggravated Child Abuse?

The legal definition of aggravated child abuse varies somewhat from state to state. Generally speaking, it involves intentionally harming a child severely enough to cause great bodily harm. This includes things like:

• Broken bones
• Head injuries
• Internal injuries
• Severe burns
• Permanent disfigurement

Unlike basic child abuse charges, aggravated child abuse does not require a pattern of abuse over time. A single, severe instance is enough to warrant felony charges.

False Accusations Are Common

While certainly some aggravated child abuse charges have merit, false accusations are very common. According to leading research, around 60% of child abuse reports are unsubstantiated – meaning no abuse actually occurred.

False allegations often arise from doctors, teachers, or other mandated reporters misinterpreting an accidental injury. For example, a child might get a black eye from falling off a bike. But if the parent doesn’t know how the injury happened, they may suspect abuse.

False memories can also lead to wrongful accusations. Through repeated, suggestive questioning, counselors can accidentally implant false memories in children. The child may then falsely remember abuse that never actually happened.

An Experienced Lawyer Can Defend You

Fighting aggravated child abuse charges requires highly specific legal knowledge. An attorney who regularly handles these cases will know the common defenses and strategies that give clients the best chance of success.

Possible defenses in aggravated child abuse cases include:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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• Lack of intent – If the injury was an accident, you lacked criminal intent.
• No lasting harm – If the child wasn’t severely injured, the charges may be reduced.
• False memories – If the child’s memories were implanted, the accusation may have no merit.
• Misinterpreted medical evidence – Doctors can sometimes mistake accidental injuries as abuse.

In many cases, an attorney can get charges reduced or even dismissed by presenting evidence to undermine the prosecution’s claims. Other times, they may be able to negotiate a favorable plea bargain rather than going to trial.

An experienced lawyer guides clients through the legal process, advises them of their rights, and aggressively challenges questionable accusations and evidence. This provides the best chance of avoiding a devastating conviction.

What to Expect After Being Charged

Once you’ve engaged a lawyer, they’ll walk you through what to expect over the coming weeks and months. Each case has its own unique timeline, but you’ll generally go through:

• Arraignment – You’ll appear in court to hear the formal charges against you and enter your plea (usually “not guilty”).
• Pretrial motions – Your attorney may file motions challenging the validity of certain evidence or requesting dismissal of the charges.
• Plea negotiations – Your lawyer may negotiate with the prosecution to get charges reduced or dropped in exchange for pleading guilty to a lesser crime.
• Trial preparation – If your case goes to trial, your attorney will work diligently to prepare your defense.
• Trial – You’ll have the opportunity to present your defense and challenge the prosecutor’s claims before a judge or jury.
• Sentencing – If found guilty, the judge will determine your penalty based on sentencing guidelines. A good lawyer advocates for the minimum sentence.

This process provides several opportunities to get charges reduced or dismissed before sentencing ever occurs. In the unfortunate event of a conviction, your attorney can also file appeals challenging the verdict.

Having an experienced child abuse lawyer in your corner greatly improves the chances of the best possible outcome. While the accusations against you may seem overwhelming now, an attorney can help ensure justice is served in the end.

Seeking Counsel and Support

Being accused of harming your own child is incredibly hard to cope with emotionally. But know that you are not alone, and skilled legal counsel combined with support from loved ones can help see you through this challenge.

If you’ve been wrongfully accused of aggravated child abuse, contact a dedicated attorney as soon as possible. Though the road ahead is difficult, an experienced lawyer can guide you through the complex legal process and defend your rights at every turn. With compassion and diligence, they can help protect you and your family.