What Happens If You’re Charged With Child Neglect?

Child neglect is often misunderstood as a civil or social services matter, but it can result in serious criminal charges—especially when tied to claims of injury, exposure to danger, or medical neglect. Being charged in Wake or Durham County may also trigger a parallel investigation by Child Protective Services (CPS).

If charged with child neglect, you may face:

• Felony or misdemeanor prosecution
• Temporary or permanent loss of custody
• CPS investigations and home assessments
• No-contact orders or court-supervised visitation
• Lasting damage to your personal and professional life

The sooner you consult a criminal defense lawyer who understands both criminal law and family dynamics, the better positioned you are to protect your parental rights and reputation.

Strategic Defense From a Child Abuse Lawyer in Wake & Durham Counties

Patrick Roberts provides tailored legal defense for individuals facing felony child abuse or neglect allegations in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and surrounding areas. Each case is built from the ground up with strategic precision.

Defense strategies may include:

• Challenging the timeline, source, and credibility of reports
• Presenting alternative explanations for injuries or conditions
• Introducing expert medical testimony
• Demonstrating lack of intent or knowledge
• Exposing ulterior motives behind accusations (e.g., custody disputes)

In a recent case, Roberts represented a client accused of permitting sexual abuse against her children. By demonstrating that the client had no knowledge of the alleged conduct, Roberts successfully negotiated a plea to a lesser charge, allowing her to avoid prison and preserve her nursing license.

View the full case result

Why Experience Matters in Felony Child Abuse Defense

These cases are often emotionally charged and scrutinized heavily by prosecutors, judges, and the public. You need an advocate who has stood on both sides of the courtroom—and who understands the nuance required to manage legal strategy, CPS involvement, and family court overlap.

What sets Patrick Roberts apart:

• Over 20 years of criminal law experience
• Former felony prosecutor in multiple North Carolina counties
• Training from top national trial programs (NCDC and Spence College)
• Academic foundation from Duke and Johns Hopkins
• Deep familiarity with medical, forensic, and child psychology evidence

Each case is handled with discretion, empathy, and a sharp eye for legal and factual weaknesses in the government’s case.

What to Expect When Facing Child Abuse Charges

When working with Patrick Roberts Law PLLC, clients can expect a proactive, thorough approach that includes:

• Private consultation to discuss the nature of the allegations
• Immediate analysis of medical records, CPS findings, and witness statements
• Coordination with forensic or psychological experts when needed
• Motion practice and negotiation with the goal of avoiding trial
• Courtroom defense when necessary—with the aim of protecting your freedom, reputation, and parental rights

FAQs About Child Abuse and Neglect Charges in North Carolina

Is child abuse a felony in North Carolina?
Yes. Most cases involving injury, endangerment, or sexual allegations are charged as felonies.

What’s the difference between child abuse and neglect?
Abuse typically involves direct harm, while neglect refers to failure to act—such as not providing adequate care or supervision.

Can these charges affect my custody?
Absolutely. CPS may recommend removal, and criminal charges can severely impact family court rulings.

Can a felony child abuse charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. Depending on the facts, a skilled attorney may secure dismissal, a plea to a lesser offense, or alternative sentencing options.

Will this appear on a background check?
Yes. A felony conviction can affect employment, housing, licensing, and even immigration status.

Take Back Control With Trusted Legal Representation

A felony child abuse allegation can turn your life upside down. It threatens not only your freedom, but your family, your future, and your name. If you’ve been accused in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, or anywhere in Wake or Durham County, don’t wait to act.

Call 919-746-7206 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with a felony child abuse lawyer in Raleigh, NC, and take the first step toward protecting your rights.