In Greeley and Weld County, being charged with Child Abuse is one of the most emotionally charged and legally serious situations a person can face—regardless of whether it’s a felony or a misdemeanor. In Colorado, even misdemeanor Child Abuse charges can carry lasting consequences, including jail time, loss of parental rights, and damage to your reputation. At O’Malley Law Office, we understand how complex and sensitive these cases are. If you’re facing Child Abuse allegations, here’s what you need to know about misdemeanor charges and how a skilled defense attorney can help.
What Is Child Abuse in Windsor, Colorado?
Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-6-401, Child Abuse is defined broadly. A person can be charged if they:
- Cause an injury to a child’s life or health,
- Permit a child to be unreasonably placed in a situation that poses a threat of injury,
- Engage in conduct that results in malnourishment, mistreatment, or cruel punishment,
- Or even expose a child to dangerous conditions (including drugs or domestic violence)
Importantly, actual injury does not need to occur. The risk or potential for harm is often enough to support a charge.
When Is Child Abuse Charged as a Misdemeanor in Milliken and Johnstown?
In Milliken and Johnstown, Colorado, Child Abuse is charged as a misdemeanor when:
- The alleged abuse did not result in serious bodily injury or death;
- The conduct is considered negligent or reckless, rather than intentional;
- Or the child was not physically harmed, but placed at risk
Examples of Misdemeanor Child Abuse: A Weld County Child Abuse Attorney Explains
- Spanking that leaves a mark (depending on the context and severity)
- Leaving a child unsupervised in a risky situation
- Verbal abuse or threats in the presence of a child
- Exposure to domestic violence
- DUI with a child passenger (can also be a separate charge)
Misdemeanor Child Abuse Penalties in Greeley, Colorado
The severity of the penalties depends on whether the conduct was reckless or simply negligent, and whether it was a first offense or a repeat offense.
Class 2 Misdemeanor (Negligent Conduct)
- Up to 120 days in jail
- Up to $750 fine
Class 1 Misdemeanor (Reckless Conduct or Prior Conviction)
- Up to 364 days in jail
- Up to $1,000 fine
In addition to jail and fines, the court may impose:
- Mandatory parenting classes or counseling
- Supervised visitation
- Protection orders
- Involvement of child protective services (CPS)
Even if you avoid jail, a conviction can follow you for life—and may impact your ability to gain custody, adopt, or work in professions involving children.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Child Abuse, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
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