Facing Accusations of Domestic Violence Against Special Needs Children
One of the most challenging and distressing situations a parent can encounter is being accused of committing an act of domestic violence against their own child. When the child in question is a special needs child with behavioral issues, the stress is compounded even more as criminal charges of child abuse may result. When you’re parenting a child with special needs, challenges can sometimes escalate into situations that are misunderstood or misinterpreted by outsiders. Even worse–sometimes a vindictive spouse or co-parent will level a false accusation against you, usually to prevail in a custody dispute. Either way, this accusation can feel like a double-edged sword, cutting deep into the heart of your family life and your relationship with your child, who requires extra care and understanding due to their unique needs.
In situations like this, especially given the social stigma involved, it can feel like you’re considered guilty until proven innocent. However, the opposite is still true. While you might be subject to protective orders put in place to ensure the protection of the child, in the end, it’s still up to the prosecution to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Let’s delve deeper into this sensitive issue and discuss what a defense strategy might look like.
Understanding California Laws on Domestic Violence