Wilmington Child Abuse Defense Lawyer

Allegations of child abuse can turn your life upside down. You could go to jail or prison. Your kids could be taken away from you. You could be placed on a state list of abusers and barred from certain occupations.

I can help prevent the worst consequences of an arrest for child abuse or child endangerment. My name is Michael Modica, a Wilmington child abuse defense lawyer with more than 40 years of experience in Delaware criminal law. I have represented parents and other adults in Wilmington, Newark, New Castle County and statewide when they have been accused of abusing infants, toddlers, children or teenagers.

Child Abuse Allegations

Criminal charges of child abuse may arise from:

• Corporal punishment, such as use of a belt
• Excessive punishment
• Confinement or physical restraint
• Burning or scalding
• Hitting or kicking
• Psychological or emotional abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Shaken baby syndrome (brain damage)
• Severe neglect
• Child endangerment

Doctors, teachers, counselors and other professionals are required to report suspected abuse, especially if the child has bruises, broken bones or other signs of injury or trauma. Special investigators will examine and interview the child, and witnesses (including other children or members of the household) may be questioned or called to testify. My job is to make sure that the investigation is conducted properly and that you are given due process.

Consequences Of A Child Abuse Arrest

A child abuse conviction may result in a prison sentence in extreme cases. In many cases, we can avoid incarceration by negotiating for probation, parenting classes, anger management counseling, or drug or alcohol treatment.

There may also be a parallel proceeding to remove the child from the home for placement with relatives or foster care. I assist clients in the goal of reuniting with their children through psychological evaluation and other evidence that you are “coachable” and not a threat to the child.

Lastly, you may be listed on a state child abuse registry. This list is not open to the public but is visible to employers and organizations conducting background checks. If you are a registered abuser, you may be prevented from working in child care, education, health care and other jobs.

I will work to prevent the most serious penalties and collateral consequences if you are accused of child abuse. For a free initial consultation with a Wilmington child abuse defense lawyer, call me at 302-600-1262 or contact me online.