Las Vegas Child Abuse Attorney

Abandoning or leaving any minor under the age of 18 without adequate supervision, food, shelter, medicine, or care can result in serious consequences. When an individual responsible for a child’s welfare abandons that child or leaves them without proper care, they can be charged with the illegal inaction of neglect.

What Are the Five Main Forms of Child Abuse?

In Nevada, willfully causing any minor under the age of 18 unjustifiable mental or physical harm is considered child abuse. Intentionally committing any acts that result in a child’s physical or emotional suffering is illegal. 

Nevada law outlines five different types of abuse:

1. Physical abuse
2. Emotional/mental abuse
3. Sexual abuse/exploitation
4. Endangerment
5. Neglect

A guardian who abuses a child may get a harsher sentence than the parent of that child. Repeat offenders with past child abuse convictions will also receive strict penalties under Nevada child abuse law.

Signs of Child Abuse and Neglect

Recognizing child abuse can be difficult, but knowing the signs can help protect a child from further harm.

• Behavioral and Physical Signs of Abuse:
  • Unexplained bruises, burns, or fractures
  • Frequent injuries with unclear explanations
  • Fear of going home or being around certain adults
  • Sudden changes in behavior, such as aggression or withdrawal
  • Avoiding physical contact or flinching when touched
• Signs of Emotional Distress:
  • Anxiety, depression, or frequent mood swings
  • Low self-esteem or self-harming behaviors
  • Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
  • Regression in behavior, such as bedwetting
  • Difficulty concentrating in school or a sudden drop in grades
• When to Take Action and Report Abuse:
  If you suspect abuse, it’s important to act quickly. Reporting your concerns could save a child’s life. Contact:
  • Local law enforcement (911 for emergencies)
  • Child Protective Services (CPS) in Nevada
  • A trusted teacher, doctor, or counselor who can help

Legal Consequences of Child Abuse in Nevada

Nevada has strict laws to protect children from abuse and neglect.

• Penalties for Child Abuse and Neglect:
  • Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse can lead to felony charges
  • Penalties range from fines to prison sentences
  • Repeat offenders face harsher sentences
• How Courts Handle Child Abuse Cases:
  • Courts prioritize the child’s safety and well-being
  • Investigations may involve CPS, law enforcement, and medical professionals
  • Abuse convictions can impact custody, visitation, and parental rights
• Protective Orders and Legal Remedies:
  • Courts can issue restraining orders against abusers
  • Victims may receive supervised visitation protections
  • Emergency custody changes can be granted if abuse is proven

Steps to Take if You Suspect Child Abuse

If you suspect a child is being abused, take these steps immediately:

• How to Report Child Abuse in Nevada:
  • Call 911 if the child is in immediate danger
  • Contact Nevada Child Protective Services (CPS)
  • Report to a school official, doctor, or counselor
• What Evidence Helps Prove Abuse or Neglect?
  • Photos of injuries or unsafe living conditions
  • Medical records or doctor’s reports
  • Witness statements from teachers, neighbors, or caregivers
  • Text messages, emails, or recordings related to the abuse
• Resources for Parents and Guardians:
  • Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-4-A-CHILD)
  • Local family counseling and support groups
  • Legal assistance for protective orders and custody cases

If you need legal help, contact Leavitt Law Firm to protect your child’s future.

Why Work with Our Child Abuse Attorney?

If you fear for the well-being of your precious children, do not speak with anyone until you have consulted an experienced Las Vegas family lawyer from Leavitt Law Firm. We have more than 30 years of combined experience handling difficult family law cases.

• When it comes to your family, there is no room for error. That is why we believe in providing our clients with effective representation so that legal challenges can be solved right the first time. When you retain Leavitt Law Firm from the outset, we can help protect you and your family from the mental, physical, and emotional repercussions that come with cases of abuse and neglect.
• According to Nevada Revised Statutes, a person can be accused of child abuse and neglect if the following circumstances are proven true:
  • You willfully caused a child to suffer unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering as a result of abuse or neglect
  • You willfully cause a child to suffer unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering as a result of purposely putting a child in a situation that would cause pain or suffering

As a parent or guardian, you are directly responsible for the safety and well-being of your children.

If you are struggling with the burden of child abuse or neglect in your family, we are here. We can help you exercise your right to legal protection over your children and family. Whether that means implementing protective orders or ensuring that an abusive spouse does not obtain child custody or visitation privileges, we can help in any of these circumstances. We will listen to both sides of the story to ensure that the correct avenue of legal action is taken to protect you and your children.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Child Abuse Cases in Nevada

Who is legally required to report child abuse in Nevada?

• In Nevada, certain professionals, such as teachers, doctors, social workers, and law enforcement officers, are mandated reporters and must report suspected abuse. However, anyone who suspects a child is being abused can and should report it.

Can a child abuse report be made anonymously?

• Yes. If you suspect child abuse, you can file a report anonymously through Child Protective Services (CPS) or local law enforcement. However, providing your information may help investigators follow up on the case more effectively.

What happens after child abuse is reported?

Once a report is made, CPS or law enforcement will:

• Investigate the claim by speaking to the child, parents, and witnesses
• Assess the child’s safety and remove them if necessary
• Take legal action against the abuser if evidence supports the allegations

Can a parent lose custody due to child abuse allegations?

• Yes. If a court determines that a parent has abused or neglected a child, they may lose custody rights and be restricted to supervised visitation or no contact at all.

What should I do if I am falsely accused of child abuse?

False allegations of child abuse can be devastating. If you have been wrongly accused:

• Stay calm and do not confront the accuser
• Gather evidence (text messages, witness statements, medical records, etc.)
• Consult an attorney immediately to protect your rights

Can past abuse be reported if the victim is now an adult?

• Yes. If you were abused as a child, you may still be able to report it. In Nevada, there are statutes of limitations on certain abuse-related charges, but it’s best to consult an attorney to see if legal action is still possible.

What legal protections are available for abused children?

Nevada courts can:

• Issue protective orders against abusers
• Modify custody and visitation agreements
• Provide access to therapy and support services for victims