Child Abuse, Child Endangerment, and Neglect Defense Attorney
Few criminal accusations are more serious—or more damaging to a person’s reputation—than allegations involving harm to a child. These cases are often emotionally charged, aggressively investigated, and frequently prosecuted with determination. In some situations, they may also arise alongside domestic violence allegations or trigger involvement by Child Protective Services.
At the Law Office of H. Charles Gorian, we understand what is at stake when you are facing child abuse, child endangerment, or neglect allegations. A conviction can put your freedom, your family relationships, and your future at risk. Our firm provides strategic, one-on-one defense representation tailored to the facts of your case.
Why clients turn to our office:
- Proven history of results
- Highly praised by past clients
- Personalized attention from start to finish
What Is the Difference Between Child Abuse, Child Endangerment, and Neglect?
California law addresses these accusations under different statutes, depending on the conduct alleged.
In many criminal cases, prosecutors rely on Penal Code section 273a, which covers situations in which a child is alleged to have been subjected to unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering, injured, or placed in a dangerous situation. Depending on the circumstances, this offense may be charged either as a misdemeanor or a felony. In more serious cases, the law allows penalties that may include up to one year in county jail or two, four, or six years in state prison.
California law also addresses certain neglect-based allegations under Penal Code section 270, which applies when a parent is accused of willfully failing, without lawful excuse, to provide necessary food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or other remedial care for a minor child. In many cases, this offense is charged as a misdemeanor and may carry up to one year in county jail, a fine of up to $2,000, or both.
Because the facts matter so much in these cases, the exact charge—and the potential penalties—can vary substantially depending on the alleged injuries, the level of risk involved, the relationship to the child, and the surrounding circumstances.
Potential Consequences of a Conviction
A child abuse, child endangerment, or neglect case can carry consequences far beyond criminal penalties alone. Depending on the allegation, a person may face jail or prison exposure, probation, protective orders, and serious damage to employment and reputation. These accusations can also lead to separate family-related consequences, including CPS investigations and custody-related complications. The criminal case and any related child welfare issues should be handled with care from the outset.
Common Defenses to Child Abuse or Neglect Charges
Every case is different, and the right defense depends on the facts. In many situations, there may be important weaknesses in the prosecution’s version of events. Possible defenses may include:
- False allegations
- Accidental injury rather than abuse
- Lack of willful conduct
- Insufficient evidence that a child was unlawfully endangered
- Reasonable parental discipline under the circumstances
- Lack of proof that a parent willfully failed to provide necessary care without lawful excuse
Our office can carefully review the allegations, the available evidence, witness statements, medical records, and the surrounding circumstances in order to build a defense strategy tailored to your case.
Speak with a Riverside County Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been accused of child abuse, child endangerment, or neglect, it is important to take the matter seriously and seek legal guidance as early as possible. Early intervention can make a meaningful difference in protecting your rights and preparing your defense. Fill out our online form today or call to evaluate your case with our attorney (951)-395-0511.