Child Abuse in San Diego: Understanding The Basics of Juvenile Dependency and the Criminal Aspects

Child Abuse in San Diego: Understanding The Basics of Juvenile Dependency and the Criminal Aspects

Child abuse is a heinous crime that can have a lifelong impact on the victims. Unfortunately, San Diego, California, is not immune to this issue.

In fact, according to recent reports, child abuse cases in San Diego have increased over the years, with many children becoming victims of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.

Child abuse allegations in San Diego can result in both juvenile dependency and criminal cases. In juvenile dependency cases, the focus is on protecting the child’s welfare, while in criminal cases, the focus is on punishing the abuser.

Let’s take a closer look at both aspects of child abuse in San Diego.

Juvenile Dependency Aspects of Child Abuse in San Diego

When a child is suspected to be a victim of abuse, the San Diego County Child Welfare Services (CWS) becomes involved. The Social Workers that investigate the allegations work for CWS.

The CWS’s primary goal is to ensure the child’s safety and well-being, which may involve removing the child from their home and placing them in foster care.

The dependency court in San Diego handles these cases, and CWS usually brings them. If the court determines that the child is at risk of harm or has already suffered abuse, they may issue orders for the child’s removal and placement in foster care.

Social workers in San Diego, California, are required to adhere to rigorous guidelines and procedures when carrying out investigations in juvenile dependency cases. Their main objective is to ensure that children are safe and well-cared for while providing support to families that are in need.

The parents or guardians may also be required to complete court-ordered programs to address the issues that led to the child’s removal.

If you are involved in a juvenile dependency case, it is essential to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who can guide you through the complex legal proceedings and help you understand your rights and options.

Criminal Aspects of Child Abuse in San Diego

Child abuse is a criminal offense, and the law enforcement agencies in San Diego take it seriously. Anyone who is suspected of abusing a child can be charged with a crime, and the charges can range from a misdemeanor to felony offenses.

In severe cases, the accused may face life imprisonment.

The San Diego District Attorney’s office handles the prosecution of criminal cases involving child abuse. They work with law enforcement agencies to gather evidence and build a case against the accused.

The district attorney may also offer services to support the child victim and their family throughout the legal process.

WHAT SHOULD YOU IF YOU HAVE AN OPEN JUVENILE DEPENDENCY CASE OR CHILD ABUSE CASE IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA?

If you have been accused of child abuse or neglect in San Diego, it is crucial to get an attorney as soon as possible.

You deserve to have a lawyer who will help you fight to get your children back. If you are dealing with a juvenile dependency case, child-welfare services case, or CPS case in San Diego County, or anywhere in Southern California, you need the juvenile dependency attorneys at ALL Trial Lawyers by your side.

Don’t risk calling the wrong lawyer. If CWS is investigating you, you do not have to deal with them alone. 

We know how the juvenile court process in California works. We have handled hundreds of juvenile dependency cases in San Diego County, Orange County, Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County.

We have an office located near you, and we’re ready to start working on your case.

Call us now to speak to a lawyer and for your free consultation. Call (866) 811-4255.

Dealing with a CWS case can be scary. You don’t have to face a CWS case alone.

OUR SAN DIEGO JUVENILE DEPENDENCY AND CHILD ABUSE OFFICE IS LOCATED NEAR YOU