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How Do I Choose the Best Child Abuse Attorney?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

When you're trying to choose the best child abuse attorney, the attorney's specialty is one of the most important factors to consider. A lawyer who specializes in child abuse cases will likely have more know-how with this type of case than one with a general practice. Likewise, long experience may also prove an important factor for comparison. Additionally, you may prefer an attorney who has ready access to experts who can help your case as well as a good reputation and track record.

One of the most important things to consider when you are trying to choose the best child abuse attorney is a prospect’s specialty. It is critical that you choose an attorney who specializes in child abuse cases. This is because child abuse cases can be complex, and proving one’s innocence can be difficult. If the accusations against you are false but you cannot prove that, you may face time in jail, separation from your family, and eventually difficulty getting a job in fields that would require you to have contact with children. For these reasons, it is crucial that your lawyer has in-depth knowledge and skill when it comes to handling child abuse cases.

Experience is an important consideration when choosing a child abuse lawyer.
Experience is an important consideration when choosing a child abuse lawyer.

Some child abuse attorneys represent the victim rather than the defendant. If you are seeking a lawyer for the victim in a civil child abuse case, specialization will likely prove important as well. An attorney who specializes in this area of law will likely have a better chance of proving your case and seeking compensation on the victim’s behalf than one who primarily practices other areas of law.

A child abuse attorney may defend adults accused of child abuse.
A child abuse attorney may defend adults accused of child abuse.

It is also important that the child abuse attorney you choose has significant experience handling these types of cases. While a fairly new attorney may know the law well, he might lack the experience to help you win your case. A lawyer who has been handling child abuse cases for years will have first-hand experience with procedures and investigation tactics that might give you a better chance of winning your case. Additionally, he likely will have more confidence in his ability to win your case, which may make a difference in court.

Some child abuse lawyers represent the victim rather than the defendant.
Some child abuse lawyers represent the victim rather than the defendant.

Access to experts can also influence your decision when you are trying to choose the best child abuse attorney. Such experts as psychiatrists and physicians could be important in proving your case. For example, your attorney might want to have the victim interviewed by a psychologist or psychiatrist early in the case. This could help ensure the details the child provides are fresh and not muddled by months of questioning and confusion.

Additionally, the reputation and track record of a child abuse attorney may also prove an important factor when you are trying to choose the best legal representation. An attorney who has a reputation for talented and ethical representation might be a good choice. Likewise, an attorney who has a good track record for proving his cases may stand out among your other prospects.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

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    • Experience is an important consideration when choosing a child abuse lawyer.
      By: Pixel Memoirs
      Experience is an important consideration when choosing a child abuse lawyer.
    • A child abuse attorney may defend adults accused of child abuse.
      By: HaywireMedia
      A child abuse attorney may defend adults accused of child abuse.
    • Some child abuse lawyers represent the victim rather than the defendant.
      By: soupstock
      Some child abuse lawyers represent the victim rather than the defendant.