Is there a legal definition of neglect or abuse of a child?

Yes, there is a legal definition of neglect or abuse of a child in Texas. According to the Texas Family Code, neglect is defined as the “failure to provide food, clothing, or shelter to a child; failure to provide medical care for a child when reasonably able to do so; failure to protect a child from physical or emotional danger; or abandoning the child or allowing another person to abuse the child.” Abuse, on the other hand, is defined as the “intentional or knowing infliction of physical injury, emotional injury, or sexual abuse upon a child; or an act or omission that, if committed against an adult, would constitute a felony.” The Texas Family Code also states that “abuse” includes any act or failure to act that “imposes a substantial risk of physical or emotional harm” to a child. In addition, the Texas Family Code also states that “neglectful conduct” includes any act or omission, or negligent failure to act, by a person with parental responsibility, that “endangers the physical, mental, or emotional health of a child.” Overall, Texas has very specific definitions of child abuse and neglect to help ensure the safety and well-being of children across the state. Child advocacy law in Texas is focused on protecting children and prosecuting those that break the law.

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Is there a legal definition of neglect or abuse of a child?

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