Child Neglect / Abuse Defense
Under the New Hampshire Child Protection Act (RSA 169-C), the New Hampshire Division of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) can institute court proceedings regarding any child that it believes is being abused or neglected. The parents of the children must appear in court and defend the allegations. If the court agrees that the children have been abused or neglected, the court can require the parents to take corrective measures — for example, attending counseling or making sure the children are not in contact with an abusive stepparent or relative.
In an extreme case, the court can order the children removed from the home or even terminate parental rights altogether. While in the past, parents facing abuse and neglect hearings were entitled to a court appointed lawyer if they could not afford one, that right was recently eliminated and only rarely can parents get a court appointed lawyer.
The family law attorneys at Cohen & Winters represent clients in matters of alleged child abuse. If you’ve been charged, don’t delay. Contact us today for a free consultation.