Somerset Child Abuse Lawyer
Our firm is committed to protecting the rights of parents and ensuring that children remain in safe, loving environments. We understand the intricacies of New Jersey’s child protection laws and how these cases unfold—from the first report to the conclusion of a Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP) investigation, and potentially, family court litigation. If you are under investigation or already involved in a child abuse case, it is essential to have an experienced Somerset child abuse lawyer by your side as early as possible.
Being accused of child abuse or neglect is one of the most distressing experiences a parent or guardian can face. Allegations—whether made in the context of a custody dispute, a school report, or a call to child protective services—can upend a family’s life in an instant. Even before a case goes to court, the social stigma and emotional toll can be severe. At the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC, we provide strong, compassionate legal representation to individuals and families in Somerset, New Jersey, facing investigations or proceedings involving child abuse allegations.
Understanding Child Abuse Allegations in New Jersey
New Jersey law defines child abuse and neglect broadly to include not only physical harm, but also emotional abuse, sexual exploitation, and failure to provide proper care. Reports of suspected abuse can come from teachers, doctors, neighbors, or even anonymous sources. Once a report is made to the DCPP (formerly DYFS), the agency is required to investigate promptly.
An investigation can include home visits, interviews with the child, review of medical or school records, and assessments by caseworkers. If the DCPP determines that a child is in imminent danger, they may seek court approval to remove the child from the home on an emergency basis. This can happen quickly—sometimes without the parent’s knowledge until it is already underway.
Many investigations are resolved without court intervention, particularly when the claims are unfounded or the issues can be addressed through services and monitoring. However, when a case proceeds to litigation, the consequences can be life-changing. Parents may face custody restrictions, loss of parental rights, supervised visitation, or even criminal charges. With so much at stake, a strong legal defense is essential.
Defending Against False or Misleading Child Abuse Allegations in Somerset
Not every allegation of abuse is made in good faith. In some cases, accusations arise during a contentious divorce or custody battle, where one parent seeks to gain an advantage over the other. In other situations, a well-meaning but misinformed individual may misinterpret discipline, injury, or a child’s behavior. Cultural misunderstandings, language barriers, and the subjective nature of certain reports can all contribute to unfair or exaggerated claims.
At the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC, we thoroughly investigate the facts behind the allegations. We work with medical professionals, therapists, and other experts to challenge inaccurate conclusions or unsupported assumptions. We ensure your side of the story is heard, and we vigorously defend your parental rights both inside and outside the courtroom.
DCPP Investigations and Family Court Proceedings
Once a DCPP investigation begins, it is critical to respond appropriately. Anything a parent says or does can affect the outcome of the case. We counsel our clients through every stage of the process, from initial interviews and home visits to court hearings and case conferences. Our goal is to resolve the matter as quickly and favorably as possible—ideally by preventing a court filing altogether.
If the case proceeds to litigation in the family division of the Superior Court, we will represent you in all proceedings, including fact-finding hearings, dispositional hearings, and permanency planning if applicable. We also assist in negotiating safety protection plans or other agreements that may allow the child to remain in the home with services and oversight, rather than face removal.
In every case, we emphasize solutions that prioritize the child’s well-being while defending your rights as a parent. We are skilled at working with caseworkers, judges, and service providers to find common ground when possible, while always preparing for litigation when necessary.
Consequences of a Child Abuse Finding
A substantiated finding of child abuse or neglect can have long-lasting consequences. In addition to potential changes in custody or visitation, the parent’s name may be placed on the New Jersey Child Abuse Registry. This can affect employment opportunities, especially in education, healthcare, or any field involving children. A finding can also influence the outcome of future custody or support matters.
For these reasons, we work to avoid any substantiated findings whenever possible. In cases where findings have already been made, we represent clients in administrative appeals before the Office of Administrative Law (OAL), challenging the conclusions and seeking to have the record corrected. We understand how high the stakes are and are relentless in our pursuit of justice for our clients.
Dealing With Criminal Charges Related to Child Abuse
In some cases, child abuse allegations may also result in criminal charges. These may include assault, endangering the welfare of a child, or sexual offenses. When civil and criminal proceedings are happening simultaneously, it’s essential to have a coordinated defense strategy. Our firm has experience navigating these overlapping systems and will work to protect your rights in both arenas.
We help clients understand their Fifth Amendment rights and ensure they are not unintentionally harming themselves in one proceeding while trying to defend themselves in another. Our careful, coordinated approach allows us to manage risk, minimize exposure, and preserve parental relationships whenever possible.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC in Somerset
Our Somerset family law firm is deeply experienced in all aspects of New Jersey family law, including the most sensitive and serious matters involving child welfare. We understand how terrifying and frustrating it is to face accusations that go to the heart of your identity as a parent. We treat every case with the urgency, discretion, and personal attention it deserves.
We are based in Somerset and have extensive experience in the local family court system, giving us insight into how local judges, caseworkers, and service providers operate. We use this knowledge to help our clients avoid missteps and present the strongest possible case at every stage.
Whether you’re under investigation, have already been to court, or are facing long-term consequences of a substantiated finding, we are ready to help.
Contact a Somerset Child Abuse Lawyer Today
If you are facing child abuse allegations or are under investigation by the DCPP, you need the guidance and support of a skilled and dedicated lawyer. Contact the Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC, to speak with an experienced Somerset child abuse attorney right away. We will take the time to understand your situation, explain your options, and fight to protect your rights and your family.
