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CALL US NOW (512) 537-3369

Open 24/7

Call us now
(512) 537-3369

Child Abuse Attorneys Supporting Suvivors and Their Families in Austin

According to Childhelp, the United States has by far one of the worst records throughout industrialized nations–losing on average between four and seven children on the daily to child abuse. 

In fact, a report of child abuse is done every ten seconds.

There’s no denying the fact that child abuse can leave innocent victims feeling scarred for life physically, mentally, and emotionally. It is critical for these children to be reminded that they are not alone, and the abuse is not their fault.

Child abuse cases are not easy, which is why you may wish to seek the help of a child abuse attorney with the proper experience and utmost compassion to guide you through the traumatic process. 

At Ramos James Law, PLLC, we can help you in your time of need.

What Constitutes as Child Abuse in Texas?

 

Child abuse is constituted as anything that may endanger the emotional and/or physical well-being and development of a child. The abuse may vary, whether it is physical, emotional, or sexual abuse or neglect.

Physical child abuse is anything that causes intentional harm to the child. Some examples include:

Child abuse is constituted as anything that may endanger the emotional and/or physical well-being and development of a child. The abuse may vary, whether it is physical, emotional, or sexual abuse or neglect.

⦿ Sexual abuse occurs when any form of sexual contact is made between an adult and a child. This can include:

    • Flashing
    • Any videos, games, photos, or images with sensual qualities
    • Forcing a child to watch sexual acts
    • Behaving inappropriately in any way 

 

⦿ Neglect happens when the caretaker fails to give the children the proper items they need for their development or physical needs. This includes:

    • Unsafe housing conditions
    • Inadequate nourishment or clothing
    • Negligent or nonexistent medical care
    • Improper supervision
    • Poor hygiene

⦿ Physical child abuse is anything that causes intentional harm to the child. Some examples include:

    • If a child is shaken
    • If the child is kicked 
    • If the child is hit
    • If the child is burned

 

⦿ Emotional child abuse is when the abuser behaves or acts in such a way that negatively impacts the child’s mental well-being and/or social capability. This can involve:

    • Crude language, regardless of whether it is directly projected onto the victim
    • Raising your voice at the child
    • Name calling, mocking, humiliating, or degrading the child

Our Austin Child Abuse Attorneys Know the Signs of Child Abuse

 

When someone reports their suspicions about a child abuse incident, professionals typically search for the following signs:

  • Recurring bruises and/or marks
  • Head Trauma
  • Burns
  • Abnormal injuries not seen in a child’s particular age range
  • Injuries of inexplicable origins

Mandatory Requirements of Reporting Child Abuse in Texas

Texas law requires that any individual with knowledge of suspected child abuse or neglect must report it to the authorities as soon as possible. This reporting requirement is mandatory for every person, not limited to solely schoolteachers or health physicians.

This law even extends to those whose personal communications may be confidential or privileged, such as doctors or nurses, members of the clergy, and even lawyers. If you are aware of child abuse in Austin, you should contact your local Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) office right away.

Suing for Damages in a Texas Civil Court

Child sexual abuse is a type of child abuse that includes sexual activity with a minor. A child is not able to consent to any kind of sexual activity, and when a perpetrator engages with a child in this manner, they are committing a crime that can leave lasting impacts on the victim.

Much like most crimes, those accountable for child abuse can be tried in both criminal and civil court. In criminal court, they may be sentenced to jail time, prison time, or probation. In civil court, they can be sued for damages caused by their harmful actions. Damages for sexual abuse cases may include the following:

  • Personal injury
  • Lost income and other financial losses
  • Past and future trauma and emotional distress
  • Past and future medical, counseling, and psychiatric bills
  • Loss of consortium
  • Pain and suffering
  • Punitive damages

Understanding Child Abuse

Many scenarios of abuse involve adults preying on children. Regardless, sexual abuse can happen in a vast range of environments, with victims of any age. Offenders can by anyone, like:

  • Teachers
  • Priests/pastors
  • Coaches
  • Scout leaders
  • Babysitters or child care providers
  • Doctors
  • Psychologists
  • Lawyers
  • Counselors

When committed by any person filling a role of authority or trust, inappropriate sexual conduct is wrong both in a legal and moral sense. Your child should never have to suffer in silence because of sexual abuse. Our legal team will do everything we can to make sure that your child’s voice is heard.

Your Compassionate Child Abuse Attorneys Helping Survivors in Austin Find Their Path To Justice & The Healing Process

A child abuse attorney can help determine if the person who abused your child has insurance that could help your child heal from the significant harm they had to endure. 

Since a child abuser does not always have the means, assets, or insurance to cover for the victim’s injuries, it can sometimes be challenging for child abuse survivors to acquire compensation. 

Our attorneys will look over all options available for getting the financial recovery your child deserves. Money recovered can help with expenses related to your child’s health and future, including medical bills and counseling.

If you suspect your child has suffered from child abuse or know someone whose child has, do not wait to discover whether you have a case against the abuser. We will evaluate the details of your claim and advise you on the best way to proceed.

 

Contact the Austin child abuse attorneys at Ramos James Law, PLLC, to find out more about your legal rights.

Contact Ramos James Law for a FREE Consultation.

Call: (512) 537-3369