Child abuse is an offense against the most vulnerable members of our society and one that often goes unnoticed; as the victims internalize their anguish as they move into adulthood. Child abuse cases are among the most difficult to navigate, and regardless of where a person falls in a case, exceptional legal representation is so important to help navigate the hyperbole and establish the facts for the sake of protecting the innocent.

The attorneys at Smith & Eulo Law Firm are experienced legal advocates in the field of child abuse law and can help forge the pathway to the truth and exact justice for the victims.

Child abuse attorney in Florida

Child Abuse - What It Is, What It Isn't

Child abuse is defined as serious physical or emotional harm to an individual under the age of 18, whether through action or failure to act. Child abuse can manifest in many forms; neglect, violence, sexual exploitation, and emotional abuse. Where one form of abuse is detected, there are likely to be other instances of abuse present in the household as well. 

Examples of child abuse that results in the non-accidental physical injury of a child:

  • Punching
  • Kicking
  • Shaking
  • Throwing
  • Slapping
  • Burning

Examples of child abuse that might interfere with the mental or emotional well-being of a child:

  • Vulgar or obscene language, regardless of whether it's directed toward the child or not
  • Shouting or screaming at the child
  • Frightening the child
  • Calling the child names
  • Ridiculing or degrading the child in a public or a private setting

Any sexual contact between an adult and a child is considered sexual abuse of a child. Examples include:

  • Any form of sexual exhibition of a child
  • Viewing sexually explicit material in front of a child or showing any such material to children
  • Any sort of explicit sexual behavior in the presence of a child
  • Any involvement of a child in sexual activity 

Gross neglect of a child is considered child abuse. Examples include:

  • Inadequate or a lack of supervision
  • A lack of adequate housing or housing that is considered unsafe
  • Inadequate food or clothing
  • A failure to provide adequate medical care
  • Poor sanitation and hygiene 

It should be noted that there is a process necessary to establish abuse or an abusive household. It is unlikely that a household would be investigated solely for an unkempt or cluttered home, for instance. There must be an imminent hazard to the child or children for such action to be taken.

Penalties for Child Abuse

The punishment for child abuse varies according to the offense and the severity of the harm to the child. Factors that determine whether the charges are a civil court matter or grounds for a criminal investigation include the level of abuse or neglect and the level of impact physically or emotionally.  It is always important to have expert legal representation in cases involving child abuse. 

Laws can vary from state to state, as can penalties for similar infractions. Because of the level of complexity in every child abuse case, an attorney who has a specialized understanding of the specifics of child abuse law should always be consulted as early in the process as possible.

Penalties can include:

  • Fines
  • Probation
  • Incarceration
  • Inclusion on sex offender databases
  • Other legal repercussions; include limited visitation, injunctions, court-mandated therapy, and removal of parental rights.

Neglect of a Child with Great Bodily Harm

Neglect of a child that results in great bodily harm is a serious legal matter, distinguished by a caregiver’s failure to meet a child’s basic needs—such as food, shelter, medical care, or supervision—leading to severe physical injury. These injuries may include broken bones, burns, or other conditions requiring hospitalization. Though often unintentional, such neglect carries profound legal and societal consequences.

There are several forms of neglect: physical (lack of essentials), medical (withholding necessary care), educational, and emotional. Each can significantly harm a child’s development. Warning signs include poor hygiene, malnutrition, chronic absenteeism, untreated health issues, and behavioral red flags such as withdrawal or aggression. Recognizing these indicators is critical for early intervention.

The physical impact of neglect can result in long-term disabilities or chronic conditions. Equally damaging are the psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and attachment issues, often persisting into adulthood. Comprehensive medical and psychological care is vital for recovery.

Legally, this offense is often prosecuted as a felony, carrying severe penalties such as imprisonment, fines, and potential loss of parental rights. Child Protective Services (CPS) is typically involved, conducting investigations and ensuring child safety, sometimes through removal from the home and provision of family support services.

Prevention requires education, accessible support services, and public vigilance. Reporting suspected neglect can be lifesaving. Community engagement and legal advocacy are essential to creating protective systems that uphold child welfare.

Ultimately, addressing child neglect with great bodily harm demands a unified response—legal, social, and moral—to safeguard our most vulnerable population.

Aggravated Child Abuse

Aggravated child abuse is among the most serious crimes within the realm of child protection law, defined by acts that result in severe physical or emotional harm to a child and often involve cruelty, weapons, or a blatant disregard for human life. This offense, typically charged as a felony, reflects the legal system's commitment to protecting vulnerable children and ensuring severe repercussions for those who commit such acts.

Legal definitions vary by jurisdiction, but aggravated child abuse generally includes conduct such as inflicting serious bodily injury or engaging in prolonged patterns of abuse. Convictions often result in long-term imprisonment, substantial fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. Beyond legal penalties, individuals face lasting personal consequences, including loss of employment opportunities, community stigma, and potential termination of parental rights.

Child welfare agencies are central to investigating allegations and securing child safety. Their multifaceted approach includes immediate intervention, long-term support services, and rehabilitation programs for affected children. These agencies also pursue family reunification when deemed safe and work tirelessly to educate the public about abuse prevention.

Prevention, however, is a collective responsibility. Community involvement—through education, reporting suspected abuse, and supporting at-risk families—is vital. Offering resources, volunteering, and fostering environments that support healthy development can significantly reduce the incidence of abuse.

Ultimately, combating aggravated child abuse demands legal accountability, community vigilance, and systemic support. By working together, legal professionals, welfare organizations, and concerned citizens can help ensure every child is protected, valued, and given the chance to thrive in a safe environment.

Let Smith and Eulo Protect You and Your Rights

If you or your loved one are in need of information on Child abuse, call us at 407-391-6423 to speak with a qualified legal professional or fill out the contact form on this page. We’re available 24/7, and we offer free initial consultation and payment plans. In addition to our Orlando location, we have offices in the following cities across the state of Florida:

*Additional Orlando Florida & Orange County Legal Resources