Unmade beds, dirty dishes and stacks of laundry are expected in a busy household but when the home becomes a health hazard it becomes a crime scene of child abuse and neglect.

Was it your neighbor or your nosey mother in law who called in a dirty house complaint? It doesn’t matter now. You must address the unsatisfactory conditions in and outside your home and the legal matters you are facing. No one expects or welcomes that welfare knock at the door. Law enforcement cannot ignore complaints of child neglect. You are now living your worst nightmare.

If law enforcement and child services come to your home for an inspection they will examine every part of the home environment that could bring harm. If there is cause, your children will be removed from the home and placed with a family member or foster care until the conditions are corrected. Both parents will likely be charged with child abuse, neglect with or without injury to the child.

Child abuse charges are very serious and certainly carry a stigma that is very damaging to every aspect of a parent’s life. Issues spring up with school, work, family, etc. If parents are arrested, charged and convicted of child abuse it becomes a permanent criminal record. The goal in my criminal defense practice is to prevent convictions of child abuse by negotiating with the prosecutor by having the charges dismissed or obtain a deferred judgment. A dismissed or deferred judgment allows me to seal criminal records from public view.

Most parents facing child abuse because of a dirty house or a remodeling construction don’t intentionally create unhealthy homes for their children. Parenting classes, instructions on sanitary housekeeping practices and safety measures are very helpful and beneficial for the family. Every client of mine that has been accused of neglect has expressed their appreciation in learning new skills. It has made their families stronger and safer. Everyone can breathe easier, too.

If you have been summoned and accused of child abuse, I can help. Call me for a free consultation, Child Abuse Defense Attorney, Philip M. Smith, 303-333-8900.

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