Facing Child Abuse or Neglect Allegations? Get Help Immediately.

Our team has experience handling sensitive child abuse and neglect cases in San Diego. We'll work to uncover the full story and protect your parental rights and reputation.

If You've Been Arrested or Charged With Child Abuse...

The consequences go far beyond court. You could face prison, loss of parental rights, sex offender registration, and a lifelong stigma that never fades—even if you’re innocent. These cases are emotionally charged and aggressively prosecuted. The second you’re accused, you need a lawyer in your corner. Waiting only helps the people trying to convict you.

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San Diego Child Abuse & Neglect Defense

When you’re facing child abuse charges, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Your reputation, your freedom, and your family relationships are on the line. At David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys, we don’t just defend cases—we defend futures. If you’ve been accused, we’re here to fight back fast, smart, and aggressively.

Child Abuse Charges in San Diego, CA

Allegations of child abuse ignite immediate emotion—often long before the truth has a chance to come out. It doesn’t take a conviction to lose custody of your child, your job, or your standing in the community. Just the accusation alone can trigger:

• Protective orders and child removal
• Criminal investigations and arrests
• Termination from your job
• Loss of professional licenses
• Social and media fallout

Child abuse charges in California are often charged under Penal Code § 273d, which covers physical injury to a child—but the term “abuse” covers much more. Emotional abuse, neglect, and even verbal discipline can be misinterpreted as criminal by mandatory reporters like teachers, doctors, or social workers.

If you’re being investigated or have already been arrested, it’s critical to act fast. The prosecutor is already building a case against you. You need a defense team that knows how to punch back.

They Want a Conviction. We Fight for Your Freedom.

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What Constitutes Child Abuse in California?

Child abuse charges encompass a range of potentially abusive actions.  You may be charged with child abuse for suspected action or inaction contributing to physical, emotional, mental, or sexual harm.  These criminal charges are intentionally ambiguous and may be prosecuted as misdemeanor or felony cases. According to California PC273d, child abuse charges can include:

Physical Abuse

Those accused of physical abuse are suspected of having physically assaulted a child.  Physical abuse can include burning, bruising, cutting, and other forms of physical assault. Physical child abuse may not always result in visible injury.

Mental & Emotional Abuse

Mental and emotional child abuse includes behavior meant to cause emotional harm.  In child abuse cases, mental and emotional abuse may include persistent verbal assaults, public humiliation, and other attacks.

Sexual Abuse

Any suspected sexual activity taking place between an adult and a child may be considered sexual abuse.  Accusations of sexual child abuse are extremely serious in the State of California, and those found guilty face severe penalties.

DUI Cases and Abuse

DUI cases involving children increase the severity of criminal penalties.  Those found guilty of DUI with a child or children in the vehicle are subject to a number of additional charges, including child abuse.

Child Neglect Charges in San Diego

Any parent or caregiver suspected of knowingly depriving a child of basic needs may be charged with child neglect.  In California, child neglect charges include actions in which a parent or caregiver failed to act responsibly in their role, leading to physical or emotional distress in a child.  Children may exhibit obvious signs of neglect, or in other cases, may appear outwardly healthy.  Cases of suspected child neglect may include allegations of:

Physical Child Neglect

Parents and caregivers have a duty to provide nutritional food, warm clothing, and clean shelter.

Medical Child Neglect

A perceived unwillingness to seek appropriate medical care for children may be charged as medical neglect.

Educational Child Neglect

Parents and caregivers are required to place children in appropriate educational programs.

Emotional Child Neglect

Suspected failure to provide a caring, nurturing home environment may lead to charges of neglect.

Supervisory Child Neglect

Inadequate supervision can place children at risk of physical, mental, and/or sexual abuse.

Child Abandonment

Leaving children unattended for any period may be considered a form of child neglect.

Why Choose David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys?

We are not a general law firm dabbling in defense. We’re criminal defense, period. Our mission is simple: restore your reputation and protect your freedom with integrity, tenacity, and skill.

Experience with High-Stakes Allegations

We’ve defended people wrongly accused of harming children—and we’ve done it successfully. These cases require a razor-sharp understanding of forensic evidence, child interview protocol flaws, and the inner workings of CPS and law enforcement.

We Fight for Your Side of the Story

We dig deep. False accusations often stem from custody disputes, manipulation, misunderstandings, or overzealous investigators. We challenge biased reports and bring out the truth.

Based in San Diego. Focused on San Diego.

We know the judges, we know the prosecutors, and most importantly—we know how San Diego juries think. That matters when your life is on the line.

Penalties for Child Abuse in San Diego – What You’re Up Against

Depending on the charges, your record, and the circumstances, a child abuse conviction can lead to:

• Up to 6 years in state prison (or more, for sexual offenses)
• Strikes under California’s Three Strikes Law
• Loss of parental rights
• Lifelong sex offender registration
• Fines, probation, and mandatory counseling
• A permanent criminal record that follows you forever
• And if you’re not a U.S. citizen, a conviction could lead to deportation or denial of naturalization.

Don’t gamble on your future. The earlier we get involved, the better your chances.

What to Expect During a Child Abuse Investigation

Being accused is just the beginning. The process often includes:

1. Mandatory Reporting – A school, doctor, or third party reports suspected abuse.
2. CPS or Police Interviews – Often without warning or legal representation.
3. Home Investigations – CPS may try to enter your home and question your children.
4. Criminal Charges – Arrest and arraignment may come quickly.
5. Restraining Orders – Even before trial, you could be ordered to stay away from your kids.

We walk you through every step. We handle the calls, the interviews, the court appearances. You focus on holding your life together. We focus on dismantling the case against you.

Defending Against Child Abuse and Neglect Charges in San Diego

If you have been accused of child abuse or child neglect in San Diego, you are facing serious criminal charges. Whether pursued as misdemeanor or felony charges, child abuse and child neglect cases carry significant criminal and social penalties.

In addition to prison or jail time and fines, parents and guardians may face a loss of custody and forfeiture of parental rights. The California courts, police, and caseworkers are not on your side. If you stand accused, the stakes are very high.

Take control of your case today! David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys has over a decade of experience successfully defending people across San Diego from allegations of child abuse and neglect. Call today to find out how you can regain control of your future.

California Central Courthouse

City courthouse in San Diego, California

• Address:1100 Union St, San Diego, CA 92101
• Hours: Open – Closed 4PM
• Phone:(619) 844-2700