Child Abuse Lawyers in , Texas
Child abuse allegations can be life-altering. Not only do you have to face looming statutory penalties, but also, the negative social stigma from the charges can be overwhelming. In some cases, child abuse charges can arise from a simple misunderstanding.
It’s common for the jury to punish an alleged child abuser to the fullest extent of the law. A conviction for child abuse can result in felony charges. You may have to face expensive fines, possible incarceration, and a tarnished professional and personal life.
If you or someone you know is facing child abuse accusations it’s in your best interest to obtain trusted legal representation.
Accusations of child abuse can result in criminal charges. You could lose your ability to parent and even face prison time. It is crucial that you stay silent with law enforcement or other investigators. Contact an attorney at Flanary Law Firm, PLLC today.
Flanary Law Firm, PLLC is experienced in handling all sorts of domestic violence cases in Texas criminal courts. Our attorneys will make every effort to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Take the steps in building your defense now.
Our attorneys practice law throughout the Bexar County area and adjacent counties including Atascosa County, Fayette County, Bandera County, Kendall County, and Wilson County.
Gain a legal partner with the attorneys at Flanary Law Firm, PLLC. Call the attorneys at (210) 899-7566 for a free consultation for your case today.
Definition for Child Abuse in San Antonio, Texas
Child abuse is a broad term under Texas law. It can incorporate many situations, and not all of them are direct acts of harm against the child. Under Texas Penal Code § 22.04, a person commits the act of child abuse if he or she intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence causes any of the following to a child:
- Serious bodily injury
- Bodily injury
- Serious mental deficiency, impairment, or injury
Texas Penal Code § 1.07(8) defines “bodily injury” as any physical pain, illness, or impairment of the physical condition. The term “serious bodily injury” is defined as any bodily injury that creates a substantial risk of death, permanent disfigurement, loss, or impairment of a bodily member or organ. For instance, losing a limb or severe paralysis would be considered a serious bodily injury.
Not every child abuse case is intentional. A person can be charged with child abuse by causing bodily injury or serious bodily injury by omission. An offender can exhibit behavior that is considered abuse by omission if they:
- Have a legal or statutory duty to act; or
- Have assumed care, custody, or control of a child.
This means that the alleged offender has assumed care, custody, or control over the child. By doing this, the alleged offender is agreeing to accept the responsibility for protecting, feeding, sheltering, and providing medical care for the child. If the alleged offender does not uphold this standard of care and it results in bodily injury or serious bodily injury, he or she may be charged with child abuse.
Mental States for Child Abuse Penalties
The penalties for child abuse charges are reliant on the mental state of the alleged offender during the offense. An individual can act intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence when they allegedly commit child abuse.
Texas Penal Code § 6.03 defines the following mental states that determine the penalties for a child abuse offense:
- Knowingly – If the alleged offender is aware of their conduct and is reasonably certain of what the result will be.
- Intentionally – If the alleged offender commits some type of conduct and it’s in their desire or conscious objective to engage in conduct or to cause the result.
- Recklessly – If the alleged offender commits the act and is aware of the possible consequence of the conduct, but consciously disregards the possibility the result will occur.
- Criminal Negligence – If the alleged offender is aware of the substantial and unjustifiable risk that may result from the conduct.
Penalties for Child Abuse in Bexar County, Texas
Why Choose Flanary Law Firm, PLLC?
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Constant CommunicationAt our firm, we always want our clients to feel empowered when defending against criminal charges. We aim to constantly communicate with our clients, answering questions and taking feedback as we progress through the case. We are always here to answer your questions or adjust your legal strategy as needed.
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A History of ResultsWith multiple decades of experience between our attorneys, we have a history of proven results and happy clients. We always aim to get a criminal case dismissed or have the charges lowered to reduce any penalties our clients are facing. We are confident we can get you the results you deserve.
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Experience You Can Count OnAt our firm, we pride ourselves on the diverse range of criminal cases we have worked on. From federal felony charges to state misdemeanors, we know exactly how to build a defense strategy that's right for you. Our team can handle even the most complex cases and are willing to be flexible with our strategies.
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Advice on Your TimelineWe understand that all criminal cases work at different paces. Whether you are just looking around for a lawyer because you're under investigation or you need immediate representation, our team can help. We will work with you no matter where you are in the process to protect your rights.
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Free Initial ConsultationsWe understand that hiring a criminal defense attorney is a big decision that many people need time to make. That's why we offer all our potential clients a free consultation to see if we're the right legal team for them. We will review your case and begin building a legal strategy to defend your rights.
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Personalized Legal Defense StrategiesAll criminal cases are different, so our dense strategies are too. We would never re-use a legal strategy from one client to the next because your case is too unique. We will always build a defense strategy that's personalized and effective for you to get the outcome you deserve.
Child Abuse Lawyers in Bexar County, Texas
Are you being investigated for child abuse? Are you unsure of what to do? If the answer is yes, then it is vital that you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. A practiced attorney can poke holes in the prosecution’s case, and help you formulate a strong defense.
Flanary Law Firm, PLLC is dedicated to defending those with allegations of child abuse. We want to make sure that your rights are protected. Every person has a right to a fair trial. We want to uphold that right for you. Let us
guide you through these murky legal waters. Contact the attorneys at Flanary Law Firm, PLLC today.
Our attorneys defend residents of the greater San Antonio area and nearby cities including Windcrest, Terrell Hills, Kirby, and Universal City.
Call us at (210) 899-7566, or simply submit an online contact form for a free consultation.
