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Child Abuse Attorney in Orlando, FL
Child Abuse
Aggressive Defense for Serious Allegations
Being accused of child abuse is one of the most devastating experiences a person can face. In Orlando, Florida, these allegations often trigger immediate involvement from law enforcement, child protective services, and the courts—long before you have an opportunity to tell your side of the story. Public opinion can turn against you instantly, and even an unproven accusation can damage your reputation, family, and future.
At Hanlon Law, we understand how overwhelming and frightening these charges can be, and we are committed to providing strong, strategic defense for individuals facing child abuse allegations in Orlando and throughout Central Florida.
False Allegations of Child Abuse Are More Common Than Many Realize
While child abuse laws are designed to protect vulnerable children, not every allegation is truthful or accurate. False or exaggerated accusations occur far more frequently than most people realize, particularly in emotionally charged situations. In many cases, allegations arise during divorce or child custody disputes, where one parent may falsely accuse the other in an attempt to gain leverage in court. Studies estimate that false allegations may occur in 2 to 10 percent of all child abuse cases, and that number may rise dramatically (sometimes exceeding 50 percent) when custody battles are involved.
Other accusations stem from misunderstandings, cultural differences, or differing parenting styles. For example, parents have been accused of abuse for breastfeeding older children, using spanking as discipline where no serious injury occurred, or choosing alternative or nontraditional medical treatments. In these cases, lawful and reasonable parenting decisions are sometimes mischaracterized as abuse by third parties, mandated reporters, or investigators unfamiliar with the family’s circumstances.
Understanding Child Abuse Charges in Florida
Florida law defines child abuse broadly, and allegations may involve physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, or sexual abuse. Because these cases are emotionally charged, prosecutors and investigators often pursue them aggressively. However, under the law, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and the state bears the burden of proving every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
An experienced Orlando child abuse defense attorney like Will Hanlon plays a critical role in protecting your rights, challenging the prosecution’s evidence, and ensuring that investigators and prosecutors are held to strict legal standards. At Hanlon Law, we thoroughly examine every aspect of the case, including witness statements, medical records, investigative procedures, and any potential bias or motive behind the accusation.
Common Defenses to Child Abuse Allegations
There are many legitimate defenses available in child abuse cases, depending on the facts and circumstances. Common defenses include situations where the allegation is entirely false, often motivated by custody disputes or personal conflicts. In other cases, abuse may have occurred but was caused by another individual, not the accused. Injuries may also be the result of accidents, which are common with young children, or underlying medical conditions such as osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease.
Another frequent defense involves situations where the alleged conduct was nothing more than reasonable parental discipline, which is legally permitted under Florida law so long as it does not result in serious injury. Each case requires a careful, individualized analysis to determine the strongest defense strategy, and early legal intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome.
The Life-Altering Consequences of a Conviction
Child abuse charges carry severe penalties. A conviction can result in jail or prison time, loss of custody or parental rights, and permanent damage to your reputation. In cases involving allegations of sexual abuse, a conviction may require lifetime registration as a sex offender, severely restricting where you can live and work. Your name, photograph, charges, and address may become part of the public record, exposing you to ongoing scrutiny and stigma.
Given the seriousness of these consequences, this is not a situation where you should attempt to defend yourself, delay seeking legal help, or rely on an overburdened public defender. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands how to fight these charges effectively.
Why Choose Hanlon Law for Child Abuse Defense in Orlando
If you are facing child abuse allegations in Orlando or anywhere in Central Florida, Hanlon Law is prepared to help. Attorney Will Hanlon brings more than 20 years of criminal defense experience, successfully representing Florida clients in complex and high-stakes cases, including child abuse accusations. He understands the fear, uncertainty, and emotional toll these cases place on individuals and families, and he is dedicated to protecting your freedom, family, and reputation.
Our firm approaches every case with discretion, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. From the moment you contact us, we work to safeguard your rights and build a strong defense on your behalf.
Contact Hanlon Law Today
If you have been accused of child abuse, time is of the essence. Early legal representation can help prevent mistakes, protect your rights, and position your case for the best possible resolution. Do not wait for the situation to get worse.
Contact Hanlon Law today by
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