Child Abuse

A Trusted Child Abuse Law Firm In Denver, CO

Child abuse is an extremely serious offense in the eyes of the law, and prosecutors often do whatever they can to ensure the defendant is held accountable for their actions. However, these situations are complex and require meticulous attention to detail in order to ensure the accused party retains control of their rights. How is this achieved? With the guidance of a qualified child abuse lawyer.

Everyone is entitled to legal representation, no matter what their charges may be. If you find yourself in the midst of a child abuse case, the first thing you should do is speak with an attorney who has experience in these matters. This will help you gain a better understanding of your circumstances while building a viable strategy for the path ahead.

The Zorrilla Law Firm is a comprehensive criminal defense law firm dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals across the state of Colorado. We are deeply familiar with how the court prosecutes child abuse cases, and we use this knowledge to your benefit in order to help you secure the best outcome available.

How Does Colorado Define Child Abuse?

The state of Colorado defines child abuse under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-6-401. This covers a wide range of behaviors that may harm a child’s physical, mental, or emotional welfare. Child abuse usually occurs when someone:

• Causes injury to a child’s health or life.
• Permits a child to be placed in a situation that poses a threat to their health or life.
• Engages in cruel mistreatment or punishment.
• Involves a child in illegal drug activities or environments.

Intention acts, negligence, or failure to act in situations where harm could have been prevented all constitute child abuse. This intentionally general definition is meant to address multiple forms of potential harm – ranging from physical harm to emotional neglect.

It is also important to note that the law considers not only the harm itself, but also circumstances that could have resulted in injury to a child. The severity of charges depends on factors like the extent and nature of the harm, the defendant’s intent, and whether the abuse resulted as a part of a pattern.

Being accused of child abuse can stem from misunderstandings, accidents, or disputes, which highlights the importance of retaining an adept child law attorney to represent the case.

Can I Go To Jail For Child Abuse In Denver, CO?

Yes, child abuse charges can result in jail time. Potential penalties vary depending on the severity of the allegations, whether the abuse was intentional or reckless, and how the child was ultimately harmed. Under Colorado state law, child abuse can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony:

Misdemeanor Child Abuse

• Class 2 Misdemeanor: If the abuse does not result in injury, there may be a penalty of up to 120 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $750.
• Class 1 Misdemeanor: If the child sustains a non-life-threatening injury, there may be a penalty of up to 364 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

Felony Child Abuse

• Class 6 Felony: For reckless behavior causing serious bodily injury to a child, penalties may include one to two years in prison and fines ranging from $1,000 to $100,000.
• Class 4 Felony: For knowingly or recklessly causing serious bodily harm, penalties may include two to eight years in prison and fines upwards of $500,000. If filed as a crime of violence, the possible prison can increase to sixteen years.
• Class 3 Felony: For intentional acts that result in life-threatening injury or death, defendants may face penalties of four to sixteen years in prison and fines up to $750,000. If filed as a crime of violence, the possible prison can increase to thirty two years.

The Zorrilla Law Firm: We Protect Your Rights To Ensure The Best Outcome Available

Searching the internet for “child abuse attorneys near me?” Contact our firm to get the legal help you deserve.

To get started with a proactive legal strategy, call us today at (303) 951-8004 to schedule your free consultation.