Child abuse allegations are much more common than you might realize, and the majority of those allegations are unsubstantiated. They can still turn your world upside down, though. The following stories illustrate how it can happen to anyone – even you.

How It Happened to Amy

In many cases, a DCS report is made anonymously, so the parent never knows who made the allegations. Not for Amy, though; her ex told her directly that he called DCS to report her, and this wasn't the first time he'd done so. What triggered the child abuse allegations? Amy had beer in the trunk of her car, and she had a dartboard in her home. For a vengeful ex, this was enough to start trouble. His first report to DCS had been an allegation that Amy had pot in her house, but Amy tested clean. On both occasions, Amy and her daughter were both questioned extensively before the social worker determined that the allegations were unfounded.

How It Happened to Patricia

Patricia had just recently separated from her now ex-husband when a social worker and a police officer showed up at her door one evening. The police officer was there because the allegations against her by her ex were so serious that the state was prepared to take her children away immediately. Her ex had claimed that she was locking the kids up and abusing them both physically and verbally. Fortunately, it was clear that no such thing was happening, so her children were not removed from her home. She did have to go to court several times over the next few months, though, and her kids had to testify. She also had to go to parenting classes, and her travel was restricted.

What Are the Impacts of False Accusations of Child Abuse?

As the foregoing stories illustrate, an allegation of child abuse against you is a terrifying ordeal. Even in the best-case scenarios, there's a constant fear that you will be separated from your children temporarily or permanently.

The investigation can be very invasive. You'll be questioned extensively, and you may have to go to court multiple times. It can affect your reputation, too, if your employer, friends, and family members find out.

It's a traumatic experience for the children involved, too. They may be very frightened that they could be taken away from their parents at any time.

What Should I Do if I'm Falsely Accused of Child Abuse?

If you are accused of child abuse, it is essential that you get Attorney Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm Team on your side to guide you through this process and protect you. Call us right away so that we can protect you and your family.

Contact our Criminal Defense Team at (888) 535-3686 today to discuss your options, or contact us online.