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Child Abuse

This is a serious offense that is as emotional as it is severe. It is definitely important to protect the welfare of innocent children. However, as an alleged offender you still have rights that deserve protecting. Additionally, false child abuse allegations are frequently used as a weapon in messy divorce and child custody proceedings or in other volatile family situations.

Whatever the case, an experienced Alabama domestic violence attorney will be able to sort through the details and protect your rights while fighting for a more favorable outcome.

Huntsville Child Abuse Attorney

With such an emotionally divisive issue as child abuse, it is paramount that you obtain an experienced and knowledgeable child abuse defense attorney to construct a solid defense and ensure your rights are protected. The criminal defense lawyers at Law Offices Of Segal & Segal have almost 50 years of combined experience in all aspects of the courtroom, including prosecution, judicial, and defense experience, and will use this knowledge to dissemble the prosecution's case against you while building a comprehensive defense.

If you've been accused of child neglect in the Madison County area, including Morgan County, Marshall County, Limestone County, and Jackson County – contact the experienced abuse defense attorneys at Law Offices Of Segal & Segal. Your first consultation with case evaluation is free, so call Law Offices Of Segal & Segal today.


Overview on Child Abuse Under Alabama Law


Types of Child Abuse Offenses in Alabama

Alabama offenses involving child abuse are defined in Title 26, Chapter 16 of the Code of Alabama. The term “child” in these statutes generally refers to an individual under the age of 18 These offenses include:

Child Abuse – Section 26-15-3

  • The torture, cruel beating, willful maltreatment or willful abuse of a minor by a responsible person
  • Class C Felony

Aggravated Child Abuse – Section 26-15-3.1

  • Responsible person commits child abuse as defined above on more than one occasion
  • Responsible person commits child abuse as defined above in violation of a court order or injunction concerning the involved parties
  • Responsible person commits child abuse as defined above and therefore causes serious physical harm to the child
  • Class B Felony

Chemical Endangerment of a Child – Section 26-15-3.2

  • Responsible person knowingly, recklessly, or intentionally causes or permits a minor to be exposed to drug paraphernalia, a chemical substance, or a controlled substance
  • Responsible person causes a minor to be exposed to controlled substance, etc. resulting in serious physical injury to the minor
  • Responsible person causes a minor to be exposed to controlled substance, etc. resulting in the death of the child
  • Class A, B, or C felony depending on the specifics of the offense

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Penalties for Alabama Child Abuse Offenders

Child abuse is an issue that Alabama does not take lightly. These offenses in Alabama Code Section 26-15 are felonies. In addition to the legal penalties for an Alabama felony, you will also probably face social stigma and a sizable impact on your educational and occupational opportunities.

The classifications for child abuse felony offenses and their corresponding consequences in Alabama are as follows:

Class C Felony

  • Simple (non-aggravated) child abuse
  • Simple chemical endangerment of a minor
  • Up to 10 years of prison, with a mandatory minimum of 1 year and 1 day
  • Up to $15,000 fine

Class B Felony

  • Aggravated child abuse
  • Chemical endangerment of a minor resulting in serious injury
  • Up to 20 years of prison, with a mandatory minimum of 2 years
  • Up to $30,000 fine

Class A Felony

  • Chemical endangerment of a minor resulting in death
  • Life imprisonment or 99 years, with a mandatory minimum of 10 years
  • Up to $60,000 fine

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Serving Clients Charged with Child Abuse in Madison County

Child abuse may be an emotional issue, but as an alleged offender in Alabama – you still have rights. Protect those rights and fight for a favorable outcome in your child abuse offense case in Huntsville, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Albertville, or Scottsboro by contacting the experienced criminal defense lawyers at Law Offices Of Segal & Segal. We'll conduct a full case review on first meeting and determine how to best address any cps (child protective services) issues, so call (256) 533-4529 today to schedule your free consultation.

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