If you suspect your child is being abused by their other parent, you must collect sufficient evidence as soon as possible. However, because this is your child, collecting the evidence should be done in such a way that it does not harm your child’s well-being. 
Before You Start Collecting Evidence to Prove Your Child is Being Abused
If your child is with you and discloses they were abused or you notice signs of abuse on your child’s body, you must take immediate action if you think your child is being abused. A family doctor or even the emergency room is a good resource, but make sure you remain calm and explain to your child it is only a routine visit. Try not to alarm your child during the process.
If your child is not with you and discloses that they are being abused, or a friend or family member tells you that your child is being abused, you must act right away, especially if it is the other parent that is abusing your child.
First, locate your child, find out where they are at the moment you find out that your child is being abused. Next, call law enforcement and explain the situation. They are able to do a welfare check and can issue an emergency protective order if they find your child is being abused.
Working With Your Attorney to Prove Your Child is Being Abused
Your best and most valuable resource is your family law attorney in the instance that your child is being abused. They are able to file an emergency order if the police do not issue one. This is called an “ex party” order. The order will ask for immediate change in custody and will probably include a protective order for your child and possibly you as well.
Your attorney will help you learn how best to protect yourself and your child if your child is being abused. Family law attorneys who have experience in this area of law are extremely skilled in making sure that their client and client’s child remain safe.
Collecting Evidence to Prove Your Child is Being Abused
Your family law attorney will help you figure out the most important and relevant evidence that you need to present. They will also inform you that Oklahoma courts tend to view abuse more seriously than neglect.
Courts do not like to get involved when parents differ on parenting styles. If one parent believes in letting the child watch television all day, but they are clothed and fed, it is hard for the court to intervene. Neglect is often harder to prove.
Your family law attorney request the following information in order to prove that your child is being abused and use the evidence in the petition requesting a change in custody.
-
photographs of the abuse, usually on the body
It is important not to draw attention to what you are photographing to minimize any stress to your child.
-
any mental health records or therapy session appointment dates or notes
Often a therapist is happy to help you and your family law attorney if your child is being abused.
-
doctor’s reports, either from your family doctor, urgent care, or the emergency room
-
witness statements from anyone who witnessed the abuse or anyone the child disclosed the abuse
Keeping clear and accurate records is essential to protect your child from their abuser. Your family law attorney will guide you through collection of this evidence so that your interests and your child’s interests are properly protected.
Initial Consultation with a Tulsa Child Support Attorney
If your child is being abused, the most important thing to remember is to act fast. You do not want to delay getting your child help. Your best resource is your family law attorney who can make this difficult time more manageable.
Hiring a knowledgeable and compassionate family law attorney will ensure the process is expertly conducted and your interests are well represented.
Contact an experienced Tulsa divorce attorney when you need to go through the Oklahoma child custody process.
For a low-cost confidential consultation, call now: 918-924-5526.