Long Island Abuse & Neglect

A Long Island Divorce Lawyer or Long Island Family Lawyer may encounter cases that contain neglect and child abuse allegations. Frequently, these types of allegations can be imposed, though not exclusively, during child custody or visitation cases. These accusations can be devastating to the accused parent, and can severely impact the parent-child relationship. A Long Island Abuse and Neglect Lawyer will often find that the charges are groundless, and are being used as emotional ammunition between divorcing parents. Regardless as to the veracity of the claims made, the accused parent should contact a Long Island Family Lawyer from our office immediately to protect their rights and the rights of their child. We have offices in New York City and surrounding counties including Westchester County, Suffolk County and Nassau County.

Allegations frequently seen in a child abuse and neglect case can include:

• Physical abuse (illegal corporal punishment);
• Sexual abuse;
• Psychological abuse and/or repetitious emotional abuse;
• Malnutrition (or withholding basic necessities).

In addition to the devastating emotional effects these allegations can cause, there are serious legal concerns that should be addressed immediately by a Long Island Abuse and Neglect Lawyer. If you are the accused parent you may be charged in criminal court for endangering the welfare of a child, or even assault. A Long Island Criminal Lawyer should be contacted in addition to a Long Island Family Law Attorney if this is the case.

These allegations could affect your child visitation rights. A New York Family Law judge may be reluctant to award child custody or visitation if these types of allegations are present. If you are in this situation it is important that you contact a Long Island Abuse and Neglect Lawyer right away to protect your child visitation rights.

It is possible that you could be contacted by Child Protected Services (CPS) in either Nassau County or Suffolk County as a result of these accusations (depending on which Jurisdiction the allegation occurred in). CPS is responsible for investigating matters involving child abuse and neglect. If you have been contacted, it is important to contact a Long Island Abuse and Neglect Lawyer right away as anything you say to CPS could be misunderstood.

If you are in danger, you need to take action immediately and contact a Long Island Family Lawyer from our office. As a victim of domestic violence, you can be charged with neglect for allowing the abuse to continue in the presence of your child. A Long Island Family Lawyer can file an Order of Protection for you anywhere in New York City or surrounding areas to ensure the safety of you and your child. Our Long Island Abuse and Neglect Lawyers at Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC can protect the rights of you and your child. Please contact us right away for a free consultation at 800.696.9529.