Sometimes in an Illinois divorce proceeding, one side will allege domestic violence, child abuse or child neglect, with or without proof or foundation, in order to influence the court’s decision on child visitation or child custody. When you are considering filing for divorce and there are domestic violence, child abuse or child neglect issues involved, it is extremely important to contact an experienced child custody dispute attorney that has the resources and experience to protect you and your children’s rights.
Unfortunately, child abuse and neglect is a a significant public health issue in the United States. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, which is a time to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to prevent the abuse and neglect of children.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2015 Child Maltreatment Report, during the federal fiscal year (FFY) 2015 there were approximately 700,000 reported cases of child abuse and neglect in the U.S., three quarters of which were perpetrated by a parent.
The large majority of kids suffered neglect, where their basic physical and emotional needs were unmet. Roughly a quarter were either physically or sexually abused and, tragically, in FFY 2015 alone, 1,670 children died as a result of abuse or neglect.
Not surprisingly, children that survive abuse or neglect can face problems as adults. The lack of healthy relationships in the child’s life can lead to long-term issues of alcoholism and drug abuse, depression, high-risk behaviors and suicide. And, all too often, the patterns of violence and dysfunction are perpetuated into future generations.
Safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments are essential to prevent child abuse and neglect and help children reach their full potential and many communities across the nation are acting, including those in Illinois.
Throughout Lake County, the signs are back this April in recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Blue Kids of Lake County is peppering the local landscape with signs featuring a child’s profile in blue. Their hope is to spread awareness about child abuse and how to prevent it to tackle this serious issue taking its toll on children, their families and the community.
Contact an Illinois Child Custody Dispute Attorney
Attorneys Gary Schlesinger and Michael Strauss have decades of experience with child custody and child visitation matters in Illinois. We understand the law and will guide you through the process. Our highest concern is to protect children. Give us a call or send us an email if you need help or advise with an Illinois child custody dispute.
Sources: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, “National Child Abuse Prevention Month 2017”, accessed April 11, 2017.; Lake County News Sun, “Seeing Signs: Blue Kids Campaign Ready to Tout Child Abuse Prevention in April” by Jim Newton, accessed April 11, 2017.
