How to Survive Allegations of Child Abuse

Allegations of child abuse have reached epidemic proportions, not only in America, but internationally. Dean Tong, who writes extensively on this subject, describes such allegations as the "ultimate weapon" in contentious divorce and custody litigation. Whether true or false, such allegations are investigated. The best way to survive such allegations is to take them seriously and prepare a defense immediately upon notification.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Educate Yourself

1. Educate yourself on the laws regarding all parties involved in child-abuse allegations. Include in your research the rights of the child and those making the allegations, as well as the rights of the accused.
2. Acquire legal counsel that specializes in defending against child-abuse allegations if you're able. Use the website "the A-Team" to help you find one. Assume the responsibility for understanding the laws and issues yourself so you can better assess her skill when you hire her and aid her ability to defend you.
3. Research other resources to further educate and support you. More than half of the allegations of child abuse in this country are found to be unsubstantiated. As a result, resources are available for those defending against child abuse. Start with Dean Tong's site, Abuse Excuse, for resources and an overview of the issues involved in child-abuse allegations.

Prepare a Defense

4. Take all allegations seriously, and immediately begin to prepare a defense. Disregard any advice to stall action, even if your attorney provides you with the advice. Find another attorney if this is his advice.
5. Begin a dated, written journal. Include descriptions of daily events in your home. Record all contact and communication with any agencies or individuals involved in the allegations. This record becomes important evidence should the matter go to trial.
6. Inquire about and request the appropriate psychological testing and evaluations. Understand that these tests and evaluations are inevitable and stressful, but also essential in proving the facts of the case. Submit freely to testing and evaluation once you feel you have a good attorney and your rights are protected.

Take Action

7. Pursue civil causes of action, such as sanctions, abuse of process and malicious prosecutions against a false accuser, if you didn't engage in anything that could be considered abuse.
8. Request the accuser submit to psychological testing as part of the investigatory process. Research the psychological tests that indicate certain types of brain dysfunction and underlying habitual or delusional themes. This information is powerful evidence if the matter goes to trial. Dr. Charles Ford's book "Lies, Lies, Lies: The Psychology of Deceit" can give you insight into why people make false accusations.
9. Document all contact with the false accuser. Most often, delusional or habitual false accusers cannot hide their malice in email or phone contact. Check the laws in your state with regard to recording conversations and follow them. Collect evidence for a trial from the moment you suspect a false accusation of child abuse.