Child Abuse
Child Abuse in the Schools and Churches
Mary Angela Shaughnessy, SCN — Louisville, Kentucky
What does child abuse in the context of schools and churches really mean?
In this day and age, you are probably familiar with media reports of child sexual abuse by teachers, administrators, clergy and even classmates. Chances are good that you've also heard stories of corporal punishment involving spanking or arm-twisting or abusive athletic coaches. What is less recognized by both individuals and the media are forms of emotional child abuse such as bullying, hazing or exclusion.
The law, however, recognizes all three.
As an attorney, I provide advice and advocacy nationwide in representing students, parents, schools, administrators and others in matters that involve allegations of child abuse in public and private schools.
Schedule a free initial consultation with me today by calling my Louisville office or by contacting me online.
Reporting Abuse
All 50 states mandate that teachers and other school officials report abuse if they have a reasonable belief that it has occurred. That said — it's a very serious allegation that many people are reluctant to make simply for fear of being wrong. On one occasion, I believed the stories of abuse told to me by an adolescent student and reported the abuse. Later I learned she had lied. However, because my report had been made in good faith — I had immunity from any claims.
Schools also need to have clear, sensible policies in place to deal promptly with any allegations of physical, sexual or emotional abuse. In one case, a school had a situation where a first grade teacher had allegedly become angry and pushed a child so hard that the child ended up underneath his or her desk. When I got there a few days later the teacher was still in the classroom. To my amazement and dismay they informed me, "He's teaching." This is not good.
As part of my practice, I regularly advise schools and school officials on these matters, reviewing existing plans and procedures, and helping them to rework or create new and better ones.
Legal Information, Co-Counsel and Expert Witness
Services Provided Nationwide — 502-442-2396
If you're interested in the knowledge and unique perspective I have to offer — please feel free to call me in Louisville or to contact me online with a brief description of your situation, interest or concerns.
