Child Abuse Text on a Gavel | Flagstaff child abuse defense lawyerChild abuse and neglect convictions lead to serious punishments, including lengthy prison terms. If you’ve been accused of child abuse or neglect in Arizona, you need to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. Even if you believe the charge is the result of a misunderstanding or someone in the community actively misrepresenting your actions, building a proactive defense is essential.

Understanding Child Abuse and Neglect Laws in Arizona

Child abuse and neglect charges can involve:

  • Physical abuse involving non-accidental burns, cuts, broken bones, or other injuries
  • Sexual abuse involving sexual acts and using children in pornography or prostitution
  • Emotional abuse, as shown by severe anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues diagnosed by a doctor
  • Neglect, including denial of clothing, food, shelter, and medical care
  • Abandonment, including failure to provide support and maintain regular contact

Arizona law requires a number of individuals to report all suspected cases of abuse and neglect, including teachers, school personnel, social workers, physicians, nurses, dentists, chiropractors, medical examiners, psychologists, peace officers, and priests or clergyman.

Potential Penalties

Child abuse and neglect is a felony under Arizona law, but the specific punishment is based on the severity of the offense. Intentional actions likely to produce death or serious injury are a Class 2 felony, while criminally negligent actions not likely to produce death or serious injury are considered a less serious Class 6 felony.

In addition to facing fines and jail time, a conviction for child abuse and neglect may cause you to lose custody or visitation rights for your own children. You’ll also have a criminal record that will limit your education and employment opportunities—especially if you work in education, healthcare, law enforcement, or the military.

Related Charges

Adults who are charged with child abuse and neglect in Arizona may face related criminal charges. These can include charges such as assault, statutory sexual assault, production of child pornography, corruption of a minor, and endangering the welfare of a child. Each additional charge complicates the case and increases the need for a strong defense.

Ryan J. Stevens, Esq.
Ryan Stevens is an award-winning trial attorney and litigator with success in high profile jury trials.