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Child abuse is a serious crime that is prosecuted aggressively in Marietta. Normally, this can be considered a good thing. If you’re facing false allegations, however, it can be a daunting fact to face. The good news is that your situation isn’t hopeless. So, how can a Marietta lawyer help with false allegations of child abuse?

There are several tasks your attorney can take on to help with your case. We have experience dealing with different types of false allegations, and we’re familiar with the processes and procedures that come with disproving false allegations. No matter the details of your case, you can count on our team to help you through your situation.

Child Abuse in Marietta, GA

While it would be nice to believe that everyone is kind to their children, this isn’t the case. Georgia ranked 37th in the nation for child well-being in recent years. There were approximately 5,565 children involved in maltreatment reports in Cobb County between 2023 and 2024 alone.

The reasons people mistreat their children can vary, but it’s considered a serious crime, regardless of the motive behind it. The leading cause of child abuse in the United States is poverty. As of 2022, about 15.6 percent of children in Marietta were considered to be in poverty. Other common causes include:

• History of abuse
• Lack of social support
• Large family size
• Mental health issues
• Parental substance abuse

Georgia law takes child abuse seriously, and it’s important to understand the nature of your charges if you’ve been falsely accused. It’s important to react accordingly and have a plan for how to proceed with your case. A Marietta attorney can help you through every step of this process.

How Do False Allegations Happen in Marietta?

Unfortunately, people are imperfect, which can lead to any number of issues when it comes to run-ins with the law. False accusations can come about accidentally or intentionally, depending on the situation. Some of the most common reasons people get falsely accused include:

• Faulty interview techniques
• Someone intentionally lying to frame you
• Someone mistaking your identity
• Someone misinterpreting a situation
• Suggestive questioning
• The child lying about being abused

Regardless of why you were falsely accused, it’s critical to collect the right evidence and prepare your case so you can give yourself the fairest chance at a positive outcome for your case. Our team at The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman always aims to get your charges dropped, but if that’s not possible, you can count on us to do everything we can to secure you a lighter sentence.

Strategies for Protecting Yourself Against False Child Abuse Allegations in Marietta

When you’re falsely accused of child abuse in Marietta, it can lead to Child Protective Services (CPS) investigating your home, which can disrupt your family life and day-to-day routines. This can be especially stressful if you’re being falsely accused because your life is being turned upside down for no good reason.

It’s important to remain calm and have a plan in place when this happens. Here are some things you can do to protect yourself after a false allegation:

• Collect evidence
• Cooperate with CPS
• Gather information
• Prepare for assessments and interviews
• Record witness statements
• Seek legal representation

One of the most important things you can do while navigating the aftermath of your false child abuse allegations is to maintain as normal a relationship as possible with your child. It’s likely that these events are going to put some strain on your relationship, and it’s important to put the extra work in to stay engaged with them.

FAQs

Q: Can I File a Case Against Someone for False Accusations About Child Abuse in Marietta?

A: Being falsely accused of a crime can impact your life forever, especially when it’s something as serious as child abuse. If someone falsely accuses you, and the allegations are proven false, you may be able to file a civil case against them for defamation, emotional distress, or malicious prosecution. Your Marietta attorney can help you file your claim against them.

Q: Do I Need to Work With a Lawyer if I’m Falsely Accused of Child Abuse in Marietta?

A: You’re not required to work with an attorney if you’re falsely accused of child abuse. However, it’s highly advised that you do. In addition to providing legal advice and guidance, your attorney can use their in-depth knowledge of the law to build a solid defense that proves your innocence.

Our team at The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has decades of experience handling false accusations, so we’re comfortable navigating these types of cases.

Q: What Is the Burden of Proof for False Accusations in Marietta?

A: Under Georgia law, the burden of proof typically lies with whichever party is making the claim. If you’re being accused of child abuse in Marietta, it’s the other party’s responsibility to prove that you are guilty. Still, it’s wise to do as much as you can to protect yourself by gathering your own evidence and building a strong case in your defense.

Q: How Do I Prove I Was Falsely Accused of Child Abuse in Marietta?

A: There are a variety of avenues to explore when it comes to proving your innocence after being falsely accused of child abuse. Some critical steps to take if you’re falsely accused of child abuse include collecting important information and evidence, cooperating with Child Protective Services (CPS) within reason, interviewing character witnesses, seeking legal counsel, and more.

Most importantly, it’s important to remember to stay calm and stay engaged in your child’s life so things stay as normal as possible.

Reach Out to a Marietta Attorney to Start Building Your Defense Today

Being falsely accused of a crime can feel like a helpless situation, especially when it’s for a crime like child abuse, which is prosecuted harshly. The good news is it’s not impossible to defend yourself against false allegations and move on with your life.

The attorney at The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has decades of experience dealing with false allegations, and we’re ready to hear your story. If you’re ready to tell us, contact the team to set up an initial appointment today.