Child Abuse Attorneys

Servicing Indian River/ St. Lucie/ Brevard/ Okeechobee/ Martin counties

Child Abuse allegations are amongst the most serious and damaging allegations that can be made against an accused. They have far reaching consequences that include possible prison sentences and removal of minor children from the family home. In many instances law enforcement and Children and Family Services are quick to jump to conclusions and usually assume these allegations to be true in an abundance of caution. In other words, Defendants are many times “presumed guilty.” The lawyers at Green & Metcalf specialize not only in criminal defense, but in family law as well. This cross-over practice of law has provided our attorneys with the experience and expertise you will need when accused a child abuse related offense.

Child Abuse Laws in Florida

The crime of child abuse in Florida can be defined as intentionally inflicting mental or physical injury to a child; intentional actions that would cause a child to suffer a mental or physical injury; or encouraging someone to act in such a way that would result in mental or physical injury to a child. This crime encompasses sexual, physical, and mental abuse, as well as neglect. Child abuse is a third-degree felony in Florida that carries up to a 5-year prison sentence.

Aggravated child abuse is a first-degree felony. The maximum penalty Aggravated Child Abuse is a prison sentence of up to 30 years and a $10,000 fine.

Child Abuse cases can not be sealed from public record unless dismissed or resolved with a not guilty verdict. A case resolved by a “withhold of adjudication” can NOT be sealed.

Andrew B. Metcalf

“If you or someone you love is facing child abuse charges, they should hire an attorney with experience and resources available to defend cases of this nature. Our team is highly experienced in criminal defense and family law. We can be trusted to evaluate and implement the best possible defense for the accused and protect their rights. Everyone deserves an aggressive and competent defense, no matter the allegation. We have the necessary expertise in this very sensitive area of the law. I do not charge consultation fees in criminal matters. Please call my office to set an in-person appointment if you wish to discuss your particular case.”

Green & Metcalf - Attorneys at Law

• Rated a perfect “10” by AVVO attorney rating service
• Readers’ Choice: Best Lawyer/ Law Firm – Hometown News, Indian River County
• “Preeminent” Peer Review Rating by Martindale Hubbell for Ethics and Legal Ability
• One of the “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” - The National Trial Lawyers
• Past President of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Past President of the Indian River County Bar Association
• A fixture on the Treasure Coast since 1975
• 24/7 availability

Contact us today for your free consultation. Our experienced child abuse trial lawyers are ready to assist you. No question should go unanswered and we pride ourselves on quick responses and 24/7 access.