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Child custody

emotional abuse

Emotional abuse of a child may constitute child abuse and be the basis for criminal charges. Because of the potential adverse effects on children, courts take issues of emotional abuse of children seriously, and a history of emotional abuse of the child may have a significant impact on the court’s determination of what custody arrangement is in the best interest of the child.

In Maryland, emotional abuse of a child can indeed be considered a form of child abuse and may lead to criminal charges. Emotional abuse includes acts such as verbal abuse, emotional neglect, or the deliberate attempt to scare, humiliate, isolate, or ignore a child. Maryland law recognizes the potential long-term harm that emotional abuse can inflict on children. Consequently, when such allegations arise in the context of custody disputes, the courts will scrutinize the claims carefully. The best interest of the child is the paramount consideration in custody determinations, and a substantiated history of emotional abuse by a parent can significantly influence the court's decision on custody and visitation rights. The court may order various remedies, including supervised visitation or the requirement of counseling, and in severe cases, may limit or deny custody to the abusive parent to protect the child's welfare.

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Child custody

emotional abuse

As a LegalFix Member You Will Be an Important Client of Local Law Firms

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Maryland State Code

Maryland State Code

Child custody

emotional abuse

Articles