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Top Child Neglect Defense Attorney Jason Cromey, Esq. on:
Aggravated Child Neglect: F.S. 827.03(2)(b)

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Aggravated Child Neglect – Much like child abuse and aggravated child abuse, the difference between child neglect and aggravated child neglect usually comes down to the seriousness of the injuries the defendant’s actions, or inaction, is alleged to have caused.

§ 827.03(2)(b) of the Florida Statutes makes aggravated child neglect a second-degree felony, carrying a sentence of up to fifteen (15) years in state prison if the neglect causes great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement of the child victim. Like child abuse, aggravated child abuse can be based on willful conduct by the defendant or by culpable negligence as well.

These charges are incredibly serious. Because of the types of allegations that form the basis for these charges, when a jury convicts a defendant, the judge is rarely sympathetic for the defendant. For this reason, it is important to hire an attorney who will challenge the allegations with knowledge and experience from the start and one who knows how to develop effective mitigation and downward departure grounds should sentencing be required.