Get the Rock-Solid Defense You Need
Child Abuse and Neglect
What is child abuse and neglect under Oklahoma law?
Oklahoma takes the safety and protection of children seriously. As such, child abuse and neglect are severe charges under Oklahoma law, with harsh penalties. Under 21 Oklahoma Statute § 843.5, it is a felony to intentionally harm, abuse, or neglect a child under 18.
Get Stone on the Phone
Accused of child abuse or neglect? Protect your rights and your future
This is one of the most important calls you’ll ever make. Get Stone on the phone now for a free consultation or contact us via form for a case evaluation. We’re available 24/7 for your most urgent legal matters.
Important Terms and Definitions
It is important to understand the difference between abuse, neglect and other child-related crimes.
Child Abuse:
Physical, emotional or sexual harm inflicted on a child. This harm must be willful or malicious, and can also include threats of harm or failure to protect a child from harm by a person responsible for the child in question.
Child Neglect
Failing to provide basic care, shelter, or supervision. This can include:
- Lack of proper medical care
- Leaving a child in dangerous conditions
- Failure to provide food, shelter or clothing
Child Endangerment
Occurs when a parent or guardian places a child in a dangerous situation, even if the child was not harmed. Examples include:
- Driving under the influence with a child in the car
- Leaving a child unsupervised in hazardous conditions
- Exposing a child to illegal drugs or violent environments
Child Sexual Abuse
The willful or malicious sexual abuse of a child under 18 by a person responsible for them. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Sexual intercourse
- Penetration
- Sodomy
- Incest
- A lewd act or proposal
Child Sexual Exploitation
The willful or malicious sexual exploitation of a child under 18 by another and includes, but is not limited to:
- Human trafficking
- Prostitution
- Publication, distribution, or participation in obscene material
- Soliciting sexual conduct or communication with a minor by use of technology
Enabling any of the Above: the causing, procuring, or permitting of any of the above by a person responsible for a child’s health, safety or welfare.
Legal Representation Matters.
False accusations often occur in custody disputes, divorces, or misunderstandings. Mandatory reporters like teachers and doctors may report suspicions that lack real evidence. You need someone on your side who is well-versed in the law under your circumstances. You need Stone Legal Group.
Key Child Abuse and Neglect Penalties
You need an attorney who understands you, your case, and your circumstances – someone willing to invest the time and resources necessary to defend you as thoroughly as possible. Stone Legal Group always designs our defense to suit your case, but some of the tactics and strategies we may employ include:
Child Neglect
Felony
Prison Time: Up to life
Fines: Up to $5,000
Loss of parental rights
Child Abuse
Felony
Prison Time: Up to life
Fines: Up to $5,000
Loss of parental rights
Aggravating Factors
- Failure to seek medical attention for an injured child
- Victims under 12
- Severe physical harm or death of a child
- Prior history of child abuse or neglect
Stone Legal’s Child Abuse and Neglect Defense Strategies
Challenging False Allegations
- Was the report made out of spite in a custody battle?
- Did a third party misinterpret discipline as abuse?
Lack of Intent or Knowledge
- Was the injury accidental?
- Was there a legitimate reason the child was left unsupervised?
Medical Evidence Review
- Were the injuries consistent with abuse?
- Did a medical condition cause the symptoms?
Rock-Solid Representation
Stone Legal is dedicated to providing you with Oklahoma’s most thorough, heavily researched and exhaustive defense strategies for cases of child abuse and neglect. We aggressively challenge false abuse allegations to protect parental rights, and fight to dismiss wrongful charges. Stone Legal Group will advocate tirelessly for your rights and your freedom – with some undeniable differences that set us apart from other attorneys and firms:
Tailored Strategy
One size never fits all. We custom-build defense strategies for your specific case & circumstances.
Concierge Service
Immediate access to your team and your lawyer when you need it.
Proven Results
Our track record of successful outcomes speaks for itself.
Local Expertise
Experience-based knowledge of both courts & prosecutors in Oklahoma City metro and surrounding counties.
More Tools
Plea bargaining isn’t our only option. Our toolbox includes litigation, motion practice, reducing penalties, ruthless negotiation, reputation protection & more.
Whatever it Takes
Private investigation, independent expert witnesses, on-the-ground evidence gathering, intensive legal research & more.
Understanding Costs
Hiring a skilled attorney is an investment in your future, your freedom and your family. For criminal cases, Stone Legal Group charges a transparent, flat fee to cover the cost of your defense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Abuse and Neglect
Can I be arrested for spanking my child?
Oklahoma law allows reasonable discipline, but excessive force may be reported as abuse.
Can Department of Human Services (DHS) take my child over false accusations?
Yes, but a strong legal defense can prevent long-term removal.
What if my child was injured accidentally?
Accidental injuries are not abuse, but medical records must support your case.
Can I lose custody over an abuse charge?
Yes, child abuse allegations can impact custody and visitation rights.
How do I fight a child neglect charge?
We can fight a child neglect charge by proving the child was provided for and refuting any misleading DHS reports.
What are the penalties for child abuse in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma law classifies child abuse as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances:
- Misdemeanor Child Abuse: Up to one year in jail
- Felony Child Abuse: Up to life in prison and substantial fines
- Aggravated Child Abuse: Harsher penalties apply if the child suffered serious injury
Can child abuse charges be dropped?
Yes, child abuse charges may be dismissed or reduced under certain circumstances:
- Lack of Evidence: The prosecution cannot prove abuse beyond a reasonable doubt.
- False Allegations: The accusations stem from custody disputes or misunderstandings.
- Insufficient Probable Cause: The arrest was based on weak or misinterpreted evidence.
What qualifies as child neglect in Oklahoma?
Child neglect is defined as failing to provide necessary care, supervision, or protection for a child. This can include:
- Lack of proper medical care
- Leaving a child in dangerous conditions
- Failure to provide food, shelter or clothing
What is considered child endangerment in Oklahoma?
Child endangerment occurs when a parent or guardian places a child in a dangerous situation, even if the child wasn’t harmed. Examples include:
- Driving under the influence with a child in the car
- Leaving a child unsupervised in hazardous conditions
- Exposing a child to illegal drugs or violent environments
How do I fight false child abuse allegations?
Common defense strategies include:
- Challenging Witness Credibility: Exposing inconsistencies or false motives.
- Medical Explanations: Proving injuries were accidental or due to medical conditions.
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that actions were not abusive or harmful.
Areas We Serve
Stone Legal Group has extensive experience representing clients in child abuse and neglect cases across Oklahoma, from the OKC metro area and beyond.
Oklahoma City
Edmond
Norman
Yukon
Mustang
The Village
Moore
Midwest City
Nichols Hills
Newcastle
Piedmont
El Reno
Guthrie
+ surrounding communities
The Latest From The Stone Legal Blog
Check out some of our latest articles that may be of interest to you.
Explore common non-violent offenses like embezzlement and larceny, and learn how these charges can impact your future—even without physical harm involved.
Discover how concierge legal services provide clients with tailored attention, faster communication, and peace of mind throughout complex legal matters.
Learn how clearing or sealing your criminal record can open doors to better jobs, housing, and a renewed sense of freedom.
Proven Defense Record
Legal Resource Center
Find answers to your burning questions, valuable links, the Stone Legal Group Blog, and more in our Resource Center.
You may also be interested in learning about…
Child Custody Modification
At Stone Legal Group, we know precisely what judges look for in custody modification cases, how precious custody of your children can be, which is why we fight for your parental rights and custody of your children.
Divorce & Paternity Disputes
Divorce is a difficult path. You need an attorney skilled in family law to walk this road with you, to shield you from the worst, and advocate for your parental rights, property, and financial security.
Victim Protective Order (VPO)
Though a VPO can be filed with no evidence at all, it can also be disputed and dismissed if it was filed without a legitimate cause. Stone Legal Group will help you fight an illegitimate emergency or final protective order.