Defending Against Child Abuse And Domestic Violence In New York
Domestic disputes can create difficult situations, especially if they involve children. Anytime accusations of child abuse or domestic violence arise, your defense requires a tough and serious approach. You’ll need an attorney who can represent you during this time.
My name is Rob Singer, and I founded my firm in Williamsville because I believe everyone deserves access to an experienced defense lawyer who can advocate for their rights. At Singer Legal PLLC, I will take the time to get to know you and understand every aspect of your situation to provide you with compassionate and comprehensive representation.
Understanding Domestic Violence In New York
In New York, domestic violence is not a single crime but rather a category of crimes committed against a person with whom you have a specific close relationship. These relationships can include people who are:
- Married
- Used to be married
- Who have a child together
- Dating or used to date
- Living together or used to live together
- Used to date
The actual crimes can range widely and include harassment, menacing behavior and assault, or even criminal mischief. When a prosecutor pursues these charges, they are usually seeking more than just a conviction. Often, they are seeking an order of protection. This type of restraining order can force you out of your home and prevent you from seeing your family. As a domestic violence defense attorney, my first priority is to challenge the allegations against you and protect your right to maintain contact with your loved ones while we fight the underlying criminal case.
What Is Child Abuse?
New York law considers child abuse to be any action or inaction that causes harm, or creates an immediate risk of harm, to a child under the age of 18. This definition is broad and covers much more than just physical injury. It includes:
- Serious physical harm
- Neglect
- Sexual abuse
- Severe emotional damage
Neglect can be broadly defined. In other words, if parents or guardians fail to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, education or necessary medical care, the state can consider that abuse. When the police or Child Protective Services (CPS) get involved, they are looking at the potential harm to the child.
Your History And The Role Of Child Protective Services
When Child Protective Services (CPS) investigates an allegation of abuse or neglect, they absolutely look at your history. If you have any previous interactions with CPS or a prior criminal record, investigators can use that information to assess the current situation.
They can use your criminal history to suggest a pattern of behavior or instability. For example, an old drug conviction or a previous custody dispute could influence how the investigator views a new allegation. However, every allegation must still be proven on its own merits, and you have the right to challenge how CPS is using old information. I believe everyone deserves a chance to show who they are today. When I take your case, I carefully review your entire history with you so I can proactively defend against any claims that misuse or misinterpret your past actions to hurt your current case.
Comprehensive And Compassionate Representation For Child Abuse And Domestic Violence
I know that being accused of domestic violence or child abuse is an extremely painful and stressful experience. You are seeking answers during one of the most difficult times in your life, and I am here to provide clear, empathetic guidance.
As your defense lawyer, I can defend you against criminal charges, protecting your constitutional rights. However, I can also represent you in family court proceedings if CPS files a petition against you. I challenge the agency’s evidence, cross-examine caseworkers and argue to keep your family intact. I can also help you appeal a CPS finding.
The outcomes of these two courts are deeply connected. You need one defense strategy that addresses both the removal of your child and the potential criminal penalties. As a domestic violence defense attorney in Erie County, I bring over two decades of experience to your case to provide you with the strongest possible defense. You do not need to go through these overwhelming accusations and manage a complex legal system alone.
Speak With A New York Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
In my criminal defense practice, I represent clients in the Williamsville, Cheektowaga and Buffalo areas against accusations of domestic violence in criminal and family court. To schedule an initial consultation, you can call Singer Legal PLLC at 716-222-3288. You can also reach out to me by sending a message through my website.