Aggravated Child Abuse in St. Petersburg, FL

Aggravated child abuse is among the most serious criminal charges a person can face in the state of Florida. This offense involves intentional and severe harm to a minor and is prosecuted aggressively by both law enforcement and the courts. A conviction can result in lengthy prison time, mandatory minimum sentencing, and lifelong consequences.

If you are under investigation or have been arrested for aggravated child abuse in St. Petersburg, you need immediate legal representation. Attorney Will Hanlon has extensive experience defending clients against serious felony charges and can help you understand your legal options and build a strong defense.

Under Florida Statute § 827.03, aggravated child abuse is defined as one of the following acts committed against a child:

• Committing aggravated battery
• Willfully torturing, maliciously punishing, or willfully and unlawfully caging a child
• Knowingly or willfully abusing a child, causing great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement

To be charged with aggravated child abuse, the victim must be under the age of 18. This is a first-degree felony in Florida and carries extremely harsh penalties if convicted.

Aggravated child abuse is a first-degree felony, punishable by:

• Up to 30 years in prison
• Up to 30 years of probation
• A $10,000 fine
• Mandatory reporting to the Department of Children and Families (DCF)
• Loss of parental rights in some cases

In addition, Florida’s sentencing guidelines often require a mandatory minimum prison sentence, especially in cases where the child suffers serious injury. Judges have limited discretion to reduce these penalties, which makes mounting an effective defense essential.

It is important to distinguish aggravated child abuse from simple child abuse. While both are serious, aggravated child abuse involves intentional acts of violence or extreme neglect that result in severe injury or suffering.

For example, striking a child with an object in a way that causes significant injuries may rise to the level of aggravated child abuse, especially if the act is determined to be malicious or intentional.

Simple child abuse, by contrast, might involve physical discipline that leaves minor injuries or an isolated incident of neglect. These cases may be charged as second- or third-degree felonies, with comparatively lighter penalties.

Being accused of aggravated child abuse can be overwhelming, particularly if the allegations arise from a misunderstanding, accident, or false report. A strong defense requires a thorough investigation and experienced legal guidance. Common defenses include:

• Lack of intent: The prosecution must prove that the abuse was willful or malicious. If the incident was accidental or lacked intent to harm, this could reduce or dismiss charges.
• False accusations: In high-conflict custody disputes or tense family dynamics, false allegations can and do occur. Your attorney can challenge the credibility of the accuser and present evidence to refute the claims.
• Injury not caused by the accused: In some cases, medical evidence may show that the injury was not caused by abuse at all, or not caused by the accused party.

Each case is unique, and Attorney Will Hanlon will work to identify the most effective legal strategy for your situation.

Beyond the immediate criminal penalties, a conviction for aggravated child abuse can result in:

• Loss of custody or parental rights
• Sex offender registration (in some cases involving sexual elements)
• Barriers to employment, housing, and professional licensing
• Permanent damage to your personal and professional reputation

These consequences make it essential to have a qualified St. Petersburg aggravated child abuse lawyer fighting for your rights from day one.

If you are facing charges of aggravated child abuse in St. Petersburg, FL, your future and freedom are at stake. Do not speak to law enforcement or investigators without legal counsel. Attorney Will Hanlon is here to help you understand your rights, challenge the allegations against you, and protect your freedom.

Call Hanlon Law today at 813-228-7095 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.