Compassionate Chicago Attorneys Serving Victims Of Child Abuse And Negligence
Children require love and attention to grow and develop into healthy adults, as without both they can suffer from lasting emotional and/or physical results for the rest of their lives. There is no excuse for abusing a child. Ever. Unfortunately, too many kids become victims of child abuse or neglect and live in a constant state of terror.
A child’s life can quickly become a never-ending nightmare if they are victims of physical, emotional, sexual or neglectful abuse in their home. In Illinois and most states, if a social services agency receives a report of child abuse or child neglect, they are supposed to launch an investigation and determine whether or not the child should be removed from that home.
Unfortunately, children who should be removed from abusive or neglectful homes do not always get taken from those dangerous environments. As a result of the agency’s negligence, the child suffers a severe injury ─ or in some tragic cases ─ death. That kind of reckless disregard for the health and well-being of a child is unacceptable.
Child Abuse And Negligence Can Take Many Forms
Abuse and neglect both harm children but in different ways. Abuse is when someone intentionally causes harm to a child, which can be through physical abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, and sexual abuse. On the other hand, neglect is when a caregiver fails to provide for a child’s basic needs, this can be physical neglect, emotional and psychological neglect, or medical neglect. While abuse is an active mistreatment, neglect is often a passive failure to care. Both can have damaging effects on a child’s growth and well-being. It’s essential to protect children from both abuse and neglect to ensure they have a safe and healthy upbringing.
Child Abuse Is Actively Causing Harm To A Child
Physical abuse inflicts harm through acts like hitting, kicking, or shaking, often leaving bruises or other marks. Burning, scalding, or actions like throwing objects or submerging a child underwater can cause serious injury and lasting fear. These signs of abuse may be more visible than others, but they carry deep emotional impacts as well.
Emotional and psychological abuse involves persistent behaviors that harm a child’s self-esteem and psychological well-being, such as constant criticism, belittlement, and threats of punishment or harm. Withholding affection, support, or guidance are also forms of emotional abuse that can impede a child’s emotional development and sense of security. These actions may not leave physical scars but can have a profound and lasting impact on a child’s mental health.
Sexual abuse is a form of abuse that involves any inappropriate sexual behavior with a child. This includes direct physical acts like sexual intercourse and fondling, as well as nonphysical acts such as indecent exposure, forcing a child to undress, or exposing them to pornography. Even inappropriate sexual discussions in the presence of a child can be considered abusive. All these actions can cause significant psychological harm and interfere with a child’s healthy development.
Church or clergy abuse is a grave betrayal by trusted religious figures, manifesting as sexual, emotional, psychological or financial harm. Such abuse can deeply traumatize victims, shattering their faith and trust. Legal avenues exist to help survivors seek justice and hold responsible parties accountable. Victims are encouraged to consult specialized attorneys to explore their options for redress and healing.
Neglect Can Be Just As Harmful As Abuse
Physical neglect occurs when a child’s basic needs are not met, such as adequate supervision, food and shelter. It includes situations where a child is left unsupervised or home alone, not provided sufficient food, or even kicked out of the house by their parents. These neglectful actions can lead to serious physical, emotional and developmental consequences for a child.
Emotional and psychological neglect involves failing to provide necessary attention, affection, and support to a child. It can manifest as parents ignoring the child, being verbally abusive or making verbal threats. Routinely overlooking a child’s emotional needs or not ensuring they are registered and attending school also constitutes neglect. This lack of emotional nurturing can significantly hinder a child’s mental and emotional development.
Medical neglect refers to a caregiver’s failure to provide appropriate health care for a child. This can include not taking the child for regular medical checkups, not administering prescribed medications or neglecting the child’s dental hygiene by not ensuring proper dental care. Such neglect can lead to serious health issues and long-term consequences for the child’s well-being.
Facts About Child Abuse And Negligence
Our experienced child abuse and negligence attorneys know how the system is supposed to work. Social services agencies are expected to remove abused and neglected children from dangerous homes and help them get placed in foster care before they are severely injured or killed. Unfortunately, the system is flawed and often fails. That is when the experience of a Chicago child abuse lawyer is needed to demand justice.
The child abuse and negligence lawyers from Deratany & Kosner can work tirelessly to hold social services accountable for their negligence.
If you or a loved one has been hurt as a result of child abuse, you have rights. Contact Deratany & Kosner to learn more about what an attorney can do for you. Call us at 312-815-6231 for a free case consultation.