If you have been accused of child neglect, it is a frightening and stressful experience. You may feel anxious and hopeless, but it is important you take the right steps to ensure you can prove you are innocent.
At Evan Moore Solicitors, this month’s blog looks at what to do if you are accused of child neglect. For legal advice, call our criminal defence solicitors in West London on 0208 0900 806.
Charged With a Criminal Offence? We Can Help, Contact Us Today!
How Do Child Neglect Allegations Arise?
Allegations of child neglect can arise in many different circumstances. This could be because a person may believe that a child is suffering neglect and file a claim without having the whole story. Although the claimant has good intentions, they could ruin the accused individual’s life with a false claim.
A person may also accuse someone of neglect to cause the person distress or to attempt to ruin his/her personal life and career. Child neglect claims often arise out of arguments between estranged couples who share custody.
According to the NSPCC, the four main types of neglect are:
Physical neglect: Not meeting a child’s basic needs or providing for their safety.
Educational neglect: Preventing a child from receiving an education.
Emotional neglect: Not meeting a child’s needs for nurture and isolating them.
Medical neglect: Not providing or refusing appropriate health care.
Children and Young Persons Act 1933
The principal offence used in neglect prosecutions is the Children and Young Persons Act 1933. Section 1 of the Act creates the offence of cruelty to persons under 16, which is commonly relied upon where a parent or carer:
- Wilfully assaults, ill-treats, or neglects a child
- Causes unnecessary suffering or injury to health
- Exposes a child to danger in a manner likely to cause suffering or injury
This offence is frequently charged in cases involving prolonged neglect, particularly where there is evidence of sustained failure to provide adequate care.
What Happens Once an Allegation is Reported?
Once you have been reported, the response is often immediate, with police enquiries begin straight away. This often includes:
- Arrest or voluntary interview
- Seizure of devices such as phones and computers
- Bail conditions restricting contact
- Checking previous allegations of abuse against you
Alongside this, Family Protective Services will become involved, and the police will liaise with social services.
How Do You Respond to an Accusation of Child Neglect?
There are a number of actions you may want to pursue immediately if you’ve been accused of child neglect, including:
- Comply with the investigation and be cooperative
- Gather evidence to support your case
- Let your family and friends know what’s going on
Relevant evidence may include statements from family members, colleagues, friends or neighbours.
If You Need Legal Help Contact Evan Moore Solicitors
Contact us to find out more or to arrange a consultation with an experienced solicitor.
How Can We Help?
At Evan Moore Solicitors, we have a wealth of expertise in case building based on the knowledge of the criminal justice system. We will review the full circumstances of the allegation and identify the underlying cause.
Additionally, we can also support you under investigation by obtaining updates on the progress of the case.
Contact Evan Moore Solicitors
If you require expert advice and representation, contact Evan Moore Solicitors. Call us in West London on 0208 0900 806. You can also send enquiries via our contact form.
