How Are Child Abuse Charges Punished in Maryland?

 Posted on September 09, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Children can get into all sorts of potentially harmful situations. Routine things like riding a bike, climbing a tree, and playing in a playground can easily end up leaving your child with cuts, bruises, and even fractures. When children repeatedly have these types of injuries, other well-meaning adults might mistakenly get the impression that the children are being abused at home.

Even when they are false, child abuse accusations can have harsh consequences. In addition to any legal penalties resulting from a criminal charge, a person could suffer from a tarnished reputation, social damage, and deteriorated mental health. If you are facing accusations of child abuse, speak with an experienced Baltimore, MD criminal defense attorney who can offer invaluable guidance at this sensitive and challenging time.

What Are the Penalties for a Child Abuse Conviction?

In Maryland, child abuse is generally charged as a felony, with the specific sentence depending on details from the case, as follows:

• If alleged child abuse leads to severe physical injury or a substantial risk of death, it can be charged as a first-degree felony, which carries a prison sentence of up to 25 years.

• Child abuse causing less physical harm can be charged as a second-degree felony, which carries a prison sentence of up to 15 years.

In addition to the prison sentences, these charges can also carry fines. However, there is no specific amount determined by the law, so the amount you might be fined can vary depending on the judge and the specific circumstances surrounding the allegations.

How Can I Defend Myself Against Child Abuse Allegations?

There are many ways to defend yourself against accusations of child abuse. Some include:

• Challenging the evidence: Demonstrate that there is a lack of physical evidence or that the allegations are false or exaggerated.

• Questioning witness credibility: Highlight inconsistencies in the testimony or show how the witness is biased or has a motive to harm you.

• Proving you lacked intent: When a child’s injuries are accidental as opposed to deliberate, the parent is generally not convicted of child abuse.

Regardless of your defense plan, nothing is more helpful than having an experienced attorney to help you navigate the charges.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Harford County, MD Child Abuse Defense Lawyer

If you are facing allegations of child abuse, make sure to speak with a qualified Northern Baltimore County, MD criminal defense attorney to understand your options. At Baltimore Legal Services, we are passionate about building a strong case to help us fight for our clients’ rights, regardless of the charges. Call us at 858-523-8423 to schedule a free consultation.