Los Angeles Child Abuse Lawyers Child abuse is not always obvious and often goes undetected. Every year, millions of children are abused in the United States. The Law Offices of Sanford Jossen has advocated for abuse victims in Los Angeles and surrounding areas for almost thirty years. A skilled child abuse lawyer in Los Angeles, Mr. Jossen litigates cases in state, federal and appellate courts, and he handles a variety of abuse cases, including:
The many faces of child abuseChild abuse is often an insidious crime which victims are afraid to talk about and which observers are reluctant to report. However, approximately five children die every day from child abuse—the majority of whom are under age four. Abuse has many faces, including:
- Chronic neglect by caregivers
- Foster care abuse
- Institutional neglect/abuse
- Strains, fractures and broken bones
- Emotional abuse
- Shaken baby syndrome
- Sexual abuse
While federal and California law provides for criminal prosecution of child abusers, the law also allows victims to file civil lawsuits against perpetrators to obtain compensation for their pain and suffering.
What to do if abuse occursIf there is imminent danger or threat of child abuse, contact emergency services immediately. Other steps you can take include:
- Assure the child that you believe him or her and can help.
- Tell the child you are contacting others who also can help.
- Let professionals help the child tell his or her story—do not press for details.
- Do not respond emotionally or judgmentally to the child’s story—such responses only raise the child’s emotional stress.
- File a report with the proper government agencies.
- If law enforcement or child services are unresponsive, contact a mental health professional with experience in child abuse cases.
- Do not give up—a child’s life may depend on it.
Child abuse lawyers in Los Angeles help repair the damage doneThe criminal courts can and do prosecute child abusers and help prevent further abuse from occurring. However, the criminal justice system does not obtain compensation for the damages endured by your child.
Contact the Law Offices of Sanford Jossen online or call 888-438-8152 today to discuss your situation. While compensation does not erase the abuse, it can pay for the help victims need to build a normal life.