Practice Area Overview
Juvenile Law
Dependency and neglect cases address parental neglect or abuse of their child(ren). Dependency and neglect cases are considered civil cases rather than criminal ones. The goal is to encourage the parents to make positive life changes that improve the safety and welfare of their children. Many dependency and neglect allegations arise when a parent is coping with addiction issues or struggling economically.
No matter how the charges arise, the most important thing is the safety and wellbeing of the minors involved. We take this responsibility very seriously. We have years of experience dealing with DHS and the foster care system in Arkansas. Our number one goal is to ensure that each child brought to us goes to the best possible home and caretakers available.
Dependency
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Dependency law is a section of family law that governs how to protect a child who is in a dangerous situation. A “dangerous situation” can mean abuse, neglect, drug use, or abandonment by a parent.
Neglect
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Neglect is a pattern of failing to provide for a child’s basic needs, including adequate food, clothing, hygiene, or supervision. Child neglect is difficult to spot, making it highly under-reported. Neglect is often prosecuted along with other charges like dependency and abuse.
Abuse
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Child abuse occurs when a parent or caregiver causes injury, death, emotional harm, or risk of serious harm to a child through direct action or failing to act. There are many forms of child abuse, including:
- Neglect
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Exploitation
- Emotional abuse
What is dependency and/or neglect?
A child is considered dependent or neglected if:
- The parent abuses or abandons the child
- The parent allows another individual to abuse or mistreat the child
- The parent fails to provide the necessary medical or educational care
- The child is living in an unsafe environment
- The child is homeless
- The child has run away from home
What are the consequences of dependency-neglect proceedings?
Dependency and neglect consequences are typically administered alongside criminal punishments for child abuse/domestic violence. They can include:
- The appointment of a new guardian (temporary or permanent)
- Mandated family therapy
- Community service
- Fines ranging from $50 to $5,000
- Jail time from three days to two years
- Adverse effects on any child custody or visitation arrangements
- Termination of parental rights.
Do I need an attorney?
Our law firm represents the minors involved in dependency and neglect cases. But if you are facing allegations of abuse or neglect, you should consult with an attorney immediately.
What Others Say
Frequent Questions
Juvenile law cases are always difficult for everyone involved, but the most important thing is the safety and wellbeing of the children involved. If you think a child is being abused or neglected, contact DHS as soon as possible.
We get a lot of questions from the parents, children, and concerned family or neighbors involved in these cases. If you have any questions about a specific case, contact a juvenile law attorney.
What is dependency and/or neglect?
A child is considered dependent or neglected if:
- The parent abuses or abandons the child
- The parent allows another individual to abuse or mistreat the child
- The parent fails to provide the necessary medical or educational care
- The child is living in an unsafe environment
- The child is homeless
- The child has run away from home
What are the consequences of dependency-neglect proceedings?
Dependency and neglect consequences are typically administered alongside criminal punishments for child abuse/domestic violence. They can include:
- The appointment of a new guardian (temporary or permanent)
- Mandated family therapy
- Community service
- Fines ranging from $50 to $5,000
- Jail time from three days to two years
- Adverse effects on any child custody or visitation arrangements
- Termination of parental rights.
Do I need an attorney?
Our law firm represents the minors involved in dependency and neglect cases. But if you are facing allegations of abuse or neglect, you should consult with an attorney immediately.
You’re not alone. Ready to talk?
Schedule a Consultation
(501) 428-0346
700 S German Ln Suite 101, Conway, AR 72034
ask@thlaw.net