Grand Rapids Child Abuse and Neglect Attorney

Child Abuse Defense Attorneys in Grand Rapids, MI

Michigan law is rightly designed to protect children from abuse and neglect, however there are still cases in which the wrong person is convicted and sentenced, and anyone charged with a child abuse charge should contact a Grand Rapids defense lawyer immediately. While you may feel everyone has already labeled you guilty because your case involves a child, we are here to stand with you in your fight for justice, and will make sure you have every opportunity to get the truth out. Grabel & Associates has worked for over 10 years in serious criminal cases throughout the Grand Rapids, Michigan area, and we know what it takes to achieve great case results in cases involving neglect and abuse. Contact our skilled defense team now and learn more about our proven legal strategies.

Working with an attorney will allow you to fight for the best available case outcome, and our lawyers will help protect you from harmful allegations and aggressive questioning while assisting you in clearing your name and moving on from the charges you are facing. For over a decade, our team has helped clients in Grand Rapids and throughout Michigan achieve excellent case results in even the toughest abuse and neglect cases, and we understand the legal issues that could arise after allegations like the ones you are facing. Our attorneys realize what needs to be considered in a child abuse case and will thoroughly review every detail of your case while working to deliver comprehensive and individualized defense throughout every stage of the judicial process.

Fight a Child Abuse or Neglect Charge in Grand Rapids

Some of the most delicate cases are those involving children, and it is critical to begin working with an attorney right away so that you do not start your case already appearing to be guilty. Our team will look at the motives behind child abuse or neglect accusations, which can often include custody disputes, misguided or misinformed adults, or unreliable testimony.

In the state of Michigan, many child abuse cases are reported by doctors, social workers, and school employees, who are required by law to report any suspected abuse or neglect. At Grabel & Associates, we make sure that every allegation is properly investigated from both sides, and will look into every detail of the claims made to ensure you are protected from false accusations. Our attorneys are always available to begin working with you in your important and time sensitive case.

Child Abuse or Neglect Charge in Grand Rapids

Any non-accidental physical or mental harm cause to a child by an individual who is responsible for his or her health and welfare can result in child abuse and neglect charges, and parents, teachers, church clergy members, and others deemed responsible can be charged with this category of crime. First degree child abuse involves intentionally inflicted and serious physical or mental damage, such as broken bones, internal injuries, or brain injuries. In these cases, conviction can lead to 15 years in prison.

Second degree child abuse in Grand Rapids occurs when a parent or guardian fails to provide adequate care and neglects a child’s basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. A 2^nd degree abuse or neglect conviction could lead to four years in prison.

Third degree charges and fourth degree charges are also possible, and can lead to felony conviction and prison time, even though basic needs are met and serious injury does not result. Minor injuries, proper standards of care, and other allegations can lead to 3^rd and 4^th degree charges. Other child abuse and neglect charges include parental kidnapping, excessive parental discipline, and more.

Our Approach to Child Abuse Defense in Michigan

In child abuse cases, it is crucial that every angle be considered, so that a child is not wrongfully separated from an innocent parent. At Grabel & Associates, we consult with you throughout every stage of your case and make sure you do not tell police what they need to hear to convict you, instead ensuring you have adequate time to tell your side of the story when appropriate and to pursue a beneficial case outcome.

In abuse and neglect cases, Child Protective Services (CPS) will often be alerted, even if criminal charges are not involved. Sometimes, children can be taken away even before a proper investigation is conducted, and our lawyers know how to deal with the problems CPS can cause and will fight to keep your family safely together.

Contact Grabel & Associates for Grand Rapids Child Abuse and Neglect Defense

Never assume that because you are innocent you will not need an attorney to beat the accusations you face. Protect against wrongful conviction now by calling 1-800-342-7896 for a free initial case consultation, or contact our firm online. We are available 24/7 for clients statewide no matter what charge you are facing.