Accused of Child Abuse? Here are 5 Steps to Take
Child abuse charges in Michigan carry substantial penalties, and a conviction (or even an accusation) could cost you custody of your children. Here are five crucial steps to take if you face child abuse accusations in Michigan.
1. Stay Calm
It’s essential to avoid panicking if you face child abuse charges in Michigan. You might say or do something that hurts your case, leading to jail time, the loss of your custody rights, or both. Stay calm, let the legal process play out, and contact an attorney immediately.
2. Don’t Say Anything to the Police or Prosecutors
We know you want to defend yourself and explain what happened. It’s a natural impulse, especially given the hefty penalties that come with a conviction and what these charges can do to your reputation. However, nothing you say to the police or prosecutors will help your case. Even saying “I’m sorry” could imply you committed a crime, because why else would you apologize? Remember: You have the right to remain silent, so use it. Furthermore, do not sign any documents from the police or prosecutors, as you might give up crucial rights or hamper your defense.
3. Don’t Contact Anyone Associated with the Case, Especially the Alleged Victim
You might want to reach out to your child, a potential witness, or the child’s other parent to explain yourself and hope they’ll persuade the police or prosecutors to drop your case. Unfortunately, contacting the alleged victim or anyone else involved in your case will only make things worse. You could face additional penalties if the authorities believe you were trying to intimidate the victim or a witness. Furthermore, you might say something the police or prosecutors can use against you.
4. Save Any Evidence That Supports Your Defense
Anything you can give your lawyer that supports your defense is immensely valuable when you face child abuse charges. Text messages related to the alleged abuse, medical records, photos or videos of the child’s injuries, and other evidence can chip away at the prosecution’s case by showing that the child’s injuries were accidental or that you didn’t intentionally cause the injuries (which is necessary for more severe child abuse charges to apply). Tell your lawyer everything you remember about the incident and give them any evidence you have as soon as possible.
5. Hire a Detroit Child Abuse Defense Attorney Immediately
It’s critical to hire a child abuse defense attorney right away. Your lawyer can examine the case against you for weak points, protect you during any meetings with the police or prosecutors, argue for your release on bond so you don’t have to wait in jail, and (if it’s the right move) negotiate a plea agreement to reduce your charges or penalties.
Facing Child Abuse Charges in Detroit? Contact Kirsch Daskas Law Group PLLC
Kirsch Daskas Law Group PLLC uses a multidisciplinary approach to defend clients against child abuse charges in Michigan. We’ll thoroughly examine the evidence against you for any inconsistencies or other issues that might weaken the prosecution’s case. We have over 20 years of legal experience, and child abuse charges are a core part of our practice (unlike many criminal defense firms). Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
