Ill-treatment of a minor

Legal defence in cases of ill-treatment of a minor

The offence of ill-treatment of a minor is governed by Article 197 of the Criminal Code. It concerns seriously endangering a minor’s physical or psychological, intellectual or moral development through measures or treatment of any kind by parents or the person caring for the child. The current penalty is 5–10 years’ imprisonment and prohibition of certain rights. If the parent or caregiver was under the influence of alcohol or psychoactive substances, the limits increase by one third. Both criminal liability and child protection are at stake, making a prompt defence attentive to the family circumstances important.

Challenging abusive allegations and defence strategies

The defence strategy begins by checking the specific conduct and the serious danger required by law. Not every family conflict or parenting mistake meets Article 197, but the absence of injury already sustained does not exclude this endangerment offence. We analyse medical documents, psychological assessments, school circumstances, protective measures and statements without assuming from the outset that the report is false. No special purpose of harming the child is required separately from the culpability prescribed by law. We may request further evidence and explanations, challenge unsupported assessments and seek the outcome supported by the file, respecting the rights of the minor and the accused person.

Urgent legal assistance in Focșani and Vrancea county

Such an allegation not only jeopardises your liberty but may also lead to deprivation of parental rights and separation from your child. The office of Lawyer Basuc Cosmin in Focșani offers urgent legal assistance in dealings with the police, prosecutor’s office and DGASPC Vrancea inspectors. We represent you professionally and discreetly during the criminal investigation and before Focșani District Court, working to establish the truth, protect your reputation and maintain family ties.