Orlando Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer

Protecting Children and Defending Your Rights in the Most Serious Family Law Matters

The Donna Hung Law Group practices family law in Orlando to guide people through some of life’s most challenging and emotionally charged situations. Few legal matters are as serious, sensitive, and impactful as child abuse or neglect allegations. Whether you are seeking protection for a child who may be in danger, or you have been accused of abuse or neglect and need to defend your rights, our attorneys are here to provide strong, strategic, and compassionate representation. We understand the complexity, urgency, and high stakes involved in these cases, and we work tirelessly to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.

Clients of the Donna Hung Law Group receive clear communication, practical advice, and a thorough understanding of what to expect throughout the entire legal process. Our Orlando child abuse and neglect lawyers take an aggressive, solution-focused approach to resolve these matters effectively and in the best interests of the child involved.

Understanding Child Abuse & Neglect Cases in Florida

Child abuse and neglect allegations fall under both family and criminal law in Florida. They may be raised during divorce, custody, dependency cases, domestic violence matters, or through reports to the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). These cases are taken extremely seriously by courts and agencies, and even unproven allegations can have lasting effects on parental rights, custody arrangements, and family relationships.

Our attorneys help clients understand the legal standards, the investigative process, the potential consequences, and the actions needed to protect themselves and their children.

What Constitutes Child Abuse in Florida?

Florida law defines child abuse broadly, and allegations may involve physical, emotional, or sexual harm. Common forms of alleged abuse include:

• Intentional physical harm
• Excessive or inappropriate discipline
• Emotional or psychological harm
• Sexual abuse or exploitation
• Allowing a child to witness domestic violence
• Substance abuse that endangers the child
• Failure to provide necessary supervision

Even allegations without physical evidence may lead to investigations and emergency court actions. Our firm provides immediate guidance in these situations.

What Constitutes Child Neglect in Florida?

Neglect involves failing to provide adequate care, supervision, or medical needs for a child. Allegations may arise from:

• Lack of proper supervision
• Unsafe or hazardous living conditions
• Failure to seek medical treatment
• Abandonment
• Chronic absenteeism from school
• Inadequate nutrition or hygiene

DCF or law enforcement may intervene quickly if neglect is suspected. We help clients respond appropriately and protect their rights during this process.

The Role of the Florida Department of Children & Families (DCF)

DCF investigates reports of child abuse or neglect made by teachers, doctors, counselors, law enforcement, neighbors, family members, or anonymous callers. During an investigation, DCF may:

• Interview the child
• Interview parents and caregivers
• Visit the home
• Speak with witnesses
• Request medical or school records
• Conduct background checks

DCF investigations can lead to dependency petitions, safety plans, or temporary removal of a child. The Donna Hung Law Group guides clients through every interaction with DCF to ensure compliance and protect their parental rights.

Consequences of Child Abuse or Neglect Allegations

The consequences of an abuse or neglect allegation can be severe and far-reaching. Potential outcomes include:

• Loss of custody or timesharing
• Supervised visitation
• Protective injunctions
• Criminal charges
• Involuntary termination of parental rights
• DCF oversight or mandatory services

Because consequences are so significant, immediate legal representation is essential.

Defending Against False Allegations

False or exaggerated allegations often occur during contentious divorce or custody disputes. The Donna Hung Law Group aggressively defends clients facing unfounded claims. Defense strategies may involve:

• Gathering witness statements
• Presenting school, medical, or childcare records
• Highlighting inconsistencies in allegations
• Demonstrating parental involvement and stability
• Providing expert evaluations
• Requesting independent investigations

We work to uncover the truth and protect your relationship with your child.

Seeking Protection for a Child

If you believe a child is being abused or neglected, it is critical to take immediate legal action. Our attorneys assist clients by:

• Filing emergency motions for temporary custody
• Seeking protective injunctions
• Requesting supervised visitation for the other parent
• Presenting evidence of danger or harm
• Working with law enforcement and DCF when necessary
• Advocating for a child’s safety in court

Your child’s safety is our highest priority.

What to Do If DCF Contacts You

If DCF is investigating your family, follow these recommendations:

• Do not panic or act defensively
• Do not make statements without consulting an attorney
• Comply with reasonable requests to avoid escalated action
• Document your interactions
• Keep your home clean and safe
• Follow all court or agency instructions
• Contact our firm immediately for legal representation

DCF involvement can escalate quickly. Having an experienced attorney early in the process is essential.

How Child Abuse & Neglect Allegations Affect Custody

Family courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining custody and parenting rights. Allegations of abuse or neglect may result in:

• Emergency suspension of timesharing
• Supervised visitation requirements
• Mandatory evaluations or treatment programs
• Court-appointed guardians ad litem
• Restrictions on decision-making authority

We help clients understand these implications and work toward restoring or protecting their custody rights.

How Our Firm Handles Child Abuse & Neglect Cases

The Donna Hung Law Group uses a thorough, strategic, and compassionate approach, including:

• Immediate case assessment
• Evidence gathering and investigation
• Courtroom advocacy
• Coordination with mental health or social work professionals
• Negotiating or challenging safety plans
• Preparing clients for interviews or evaluations
• Representing clients in criminal, dependency, and family court

We tailor our approach to your situation, whether you are defending against allegations or seeking protection for a child.

The Legal Process in Child Abuse & Neglect Cases

These cases may involve more than one court system. The general process includes:

DCF Investigation

DCF interviews parties, inspects homes, and evaluates risk factors.

Shelter or Emergency Hearings

If DCF believes a child is unsafe, a shelter hearing may be held within 24 hours.

Dependency Proceedings

The court may require services, evaluations, or reunification plans depending on findings.

Family Court Proceedings

Custody, timesharing, and parental rights may be directly affected.

Criminal Proceedings

In some cases, law enforcement may file criminal charges.

Our attorneys guide clients through every stage to ensure full protection of their rights.

Comprehensive Orlando Family Law Practice

The Donna Hung Law Group handles a wide range of family law matters. In addition to child abuse and neglect cases, we assist clients with:

• Divorce
• Custody and parenting plans
• Domestic violence cases
• Modifications and enforcement
• Protection orders
• Paternity matters
• Mediation
• Timesharing disputes

We are dedicated to helping families navigate the legal system with strength, clarity, and informed guidance.

Orlando Family Courthouse Information

Child abuse and neglect matters are often handled in the dependency or family divisions of the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida.

Orange County Courthouse
425 N. Orange Avenue
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 836-2000
Website: www.ninthcircuit.org

Dependency cases move quickly and may require multiple hearings.

Orlando Child Abuse & Neglect FAQs

What should I do if I am falsely accused of child abuse?

Contact an attorney immediately. Do not speak to investigators without legal representation.

Can DCF take my child without a court order?

DCF may remove a child temporarily if there is imminent danger, but a shelter hearing must occur within 24 hours.

Will an abuse allegation affect my custody case?

Yes. Courts may restrict custody or require supervised visitation until the matter is resolved.

What if I suspect a child is being harmed?

You may need to contact authorities or file emergency motions for protection. Our firm can assist immediately.

Can allegations be used maliciously in divorce?

Yes, but courts evaluate evidence carefully. We help defend against false claims.

Serving Throughout Orlando

• Baldwin Park
• College Park
• Lake Nona
• Winter Park
• Thornton Park
• Dr. Phillips
• MetroWest
• Hunters Creek
• Avalon Park
• Windermere
• Celebration
• Waterford Lakes
• Mills 50 District
• Audubon Park
• Conway
• South Eola
• Bay Hill
• Lake Como
• Lake Mary
• Vista Lakes

Orlando Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyers Here for You When You Need Us

At the Donna Hung Law Group, we understand the seriousness and urgency of child abuse and neglect cases. Whether you need to protect a child or defend against damaging allegations, our attorneys are prepared to act quickly and strategically. We provide experienced guidance during investigations, hearings, and all related legal proceedings.

Call the Donna Hung Law Group at 407-999-0099 to schedule a confidential consultation. Your family’s safety and future deserve strong legal protection.