Crimes Against Children and Seniors

Criminal Defense: Crimes Against Children and Seniors

No matter what the alleged offense was, crimes against children and seniors carry heavier penalties than they would if the same crime had been carried out against an adult. This is because children and vulnerable adults are considered to be a "defenseless class."

Additionally, prosecutors, jurors and law enforcement officials have a strong emotional response to these charges — they may be unfairly biased against you.

The Law Office of Christopher Patterson, P.A. in Panama City, Florida, is one of the leading criminal defense law firms in all of North Florida. We provide experienced, reputable, focused and attentive service to each client. For a free consultation to learn more, call 850-588-4021 or contact us online today.

Lawyer Christopher Patterson has practiced in criminal law since 1985. Today, he is the only Criminal Trial Advocate certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy in all of Northwest Florida. In 2006, 2007 and 2008, he was selected to be included in Florida Super Lawyers Magazine.

Parents Charged with Crimes Against Children

When charging parents with crimes, the criminal justice system finds itself faced with slippery questions about the government's right to dictate to parents how they ought to raise their children. Parents may consider certain amounts of spanking to be normal, while the Department of Children and Families may view it as child abuse.

The same often holds true for charges of child neglect: at what point is it beneficial to remove a child from his or her parents and environment? In severe cases, for example if a child is being starved, it's easier to tell when the boundary has been crossed. Our law firm defends against charges and enforces parental rights.

Sex Crimes Against Children

It can be difficult for a defendant to overcome the stigma attached to charges of sex crimes against children. Additionally, many defendants are not aware that the mere act of viewing child pornography is a crime punishable by years in prison. Viewing child pornography makes the viewer a party to the initial exploitation of the child.

Senior Abuse and Senior Neglect

In addition to crimes against children, we also frequently defend clients against charges of senior abuse and senior neglect. This can occur in a nursing home or can occur between elderly parents and their children.

To schedule a free consultation with attorney Patterson, call 850-588-4021 or contact us online today.