Tahlequah, Oklahoma local and state laws require that parents and caregivers provide care to the children under their supervision. Failure to do so may result in criminal child neglect charges in Oklahoma.
Because the penalties for this crime can be serious, contact an experienced Tahlequah attorney today.
Understanding “Child Neglect” In Tahlequah
Child neglect can take many different forms and can be dependent on the circumstances.
However, a prosecuting attorney must prove that the person facing child neglect charges in Oklahoma acted deliberately or willfully, and failed to do one of the following:
- Provide adequate nurture, affection, food, clothing, shelter, sanitation, hygiene, medical treatment, education, or supervision.
- Protect a children from exposure to illegal drugs, illegal activities, or sexual acts or materials; or
- Abandoning a child.
Because the law in Tahlequah is so broad, leaving your child home alone to go grocery shopping can constitute child neglect charges in Oklahoma, just as doing drugs around your children can.
Penalties For Child Neglect In Oklahoma
Under especially serious circumstances, a conviction of child neglect charges in Oklahoma may lead to a loss of custody or parental rights altogether.
Criminal penalties range from one year to life in prison, also depending on the seriousness of the crime.
Defending Child Neglect Charges In Oklahoma
Because Oklahoma child neglect laws are so broad, it may be easier to assert a defense against a criminal charge of neglect. This is especially true in cases where it is arguable that a guardian’s conduct did not constitute neglect.
However, these determinations may be up to the judge to decide. For this reason, it is advisable to hire an experienced child neglect attorney so that they can create the best legal argument in your defense.
Low-cost Initial Consultation: Tahlequah Felony Defense Attorney
Criminal charges can not only impact you legally, but your family as well.
To consult with an experienced Tahlequah felony defense attorney, call Wirth Law Office — Tahlequah at 918-458-2677.
Or, if you prefer e-mail, you may enter a legal question in the form at the top right of this page and we’ll contact you by e-mail as soon as possible.
