California PC 273d | Los Angeles Child Abuse Defense Attorneys
Child Abuse is a crime that society rightly abhors. But abuse allegations are not always fair or clear-cut, and false accusations, ordinary accidents or necessary disciplinary measures can be misconstrued or blown out of proportion, landing innocent people in jail. Unfortunately, those accused of Child Abuse and Child Endangerment are often treated as guilty until proven innocent. This is particularly devastating for parents who often face two separate proceedings — prosecution in criminal courts and interference with their parental rights in the dependency courts, also known as the “Children’s Court.”
Founded in 1987, the California criminal defense firm of Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP has specialized in criminal defense litigation exclusively. Managing partners, Paul Takakjian and Stephen Sitkoff are former LA prosecutors with extensive experience defending Child Abuse charges in Los Angeles. If you’ve come under investigation or have been recently arrested for Child Abuse, contact our Los Angeles Child Abuse lawyers immediately (888) 579-4844 for a free consultation.
Is PC 273d – Child Abuse A Felony Or Misdemeanor?
Corporal Injury to a Child, also known as Child Abuse, is defined under California Penal Code 273d as willfully inflicting upon a child any cruel or inhuman corporal punishment or an injury resulting in a traumatic condition. As a “wobbler” offense, Child Abuse may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the specific facts of the case, your prior criminal history, and the level of harm alleged. Acts considered abuse range from neglect of needs, assault and battery, emotional abuse, and child sexual assault. Punishments can vary based on whether you’re prosecuted for a misdemeanor or a felony Child Abuse charge.
Penalties For Child Abuse In California
Even a first-offense Child Abuse conviction can potentially result in incarceration, fines, court-mandated counseling, restraining orders, and probation. The similar to Los Angeles domestic violence, punishments are much harsher for felony convictions versus the penalties for a misdemeanor Child Abuse conviction in California.
A misdemeanor Child Abuse charge in California is punishable by the following:
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- A mandatory minimum period of summary or unsupervised probation of 3 years
- A restraining order or criminal protective order protecting the victim from further acts of violence or threats, and possible stay-away conditions resulting in exclusion from your residence
- Mandatory completion of a 52-week court-ordered Child Abuser’s Treatment Program with quarterly appearances in court to demonstrate treatment progress
- Random drug testing if your Child Abuse charges involved allegations you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the act
A felony Child Abuse charge in California is punishable by the following:
- Up to 6 years in state prison
- A maximum fine of $6,000
- A 3-year mandatory minimum term of formal probation, also known as “Felony Probation”
- Criminal protective order with stay-away conditions and firearm restrictions
- Mandatory completion of a 52-week Child Abuser’s Treatment Program or “Parenting Classes” with progress appearances in court every 3 months
- Drug testing conducted by the probation department at random if drug or alcohol intoxication was an aggravating factor in your case
Child Abuse Defense Lawyer In Los Angeles Since 1987
Whether you’ve been wrongfully accused or simply lost your temper, the defense lawyers at Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP have the experience and expertise needed to ensure your rights are protected and you’re aggressively advocated for. With a skilled criminal defense team on your side, your Child Abuse charges can be reduced or dismissed, and the punishments lessened or even eliminated completely. Call us today at 888-579-4844 or contact us online for free case review at one of our convenient locations in West Los Angeles, Torrance, Van Nuys, Santa Clarita, Van Nuys, Long Beach, or West Covina.