The incidence of child abuse during a child’s life can have drastic repercussions on their adult life. A child who does not feel comfortable discussing the details of the child abuse could keep this bottled up inside until it emerges much later. It is therefore important to stay aware of any changes in your child’s behavior to end the abuse early on and prevent it from continuing. Once you determine child abuse has occurred, you have several options in pursuing legal remedies.

Child abuse takes the following forms:

• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect

Each form of abuse can have lasting repercussions on children. Physical abuse includes the intentional infliction of injury on a child. This can be a one-time occurrence, or can involve repeated beatings. However, physical abuse does not have to leave signs of abuse – physical abuse can occur through the intentional and unwelcome touching of a child.

Emotional abuse can take many forms, but often includes the negative treatment of a child, including bullying. Emotional abuse is often extremely traumatic for children, who are often unable to correctly articulate what is taking place. It is therefore important to pay attention to any changes in their mood or personality which could indicate potential signs of abuse.

Sexual abuse involves the sexual gratification of the adult through the use of the child. These are often the most difficult to uncover since children are often unaware that abuse is occurring, or are too embarrassed to broach the topic with their parents, especially if the abuser is a relative or close friend.

Child neglect often accompanies physical abuse, since most forms of neglect often lead to physical repercussions. Children who are not adequately cared for may end up in the hospital with a variety of illnesses that stem from neglect.

Each type of child abuse can lead to criminal charges. However, in addition to criminal charges, you may also bring a civil claim on behalf of your child for damages. Damages can include hospital bills or medical expenses in the case of physical injuries, but will also take into account emotional damage which was caused by the abuse. An experienced child abuse attorney will be able to assist you in determining the amount which your child is entitled to receive as a result of the abuse. The person who committed the abuse should be held responsible for their actions.

If your child has been the victim of child abuse, do not hesitate to contact Tony Malley of the Malley Law Firm. Your children are your responsibility, but the actions of others in causing emotional or physical harm to your children are not your fault. The person who caused the abuse should be held liable for their actions. Contact our Houston or Beaumont offices today for your initial free consultation.