Child neglect is the failure of a parent or other person with responsibility for the child to provide the food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education, and supervision necessary for the child's health, safety, and well-being. Placing the child in physically or emotionally harmful situations is also child neglect. Courts take child neglect seriously, and a parent or other person with custody of the child who is guilty of child neglect may lose custody of the child, and may face criminal charges.
In Vermont, child neglect is defined under state statutes as the failure of a parent or guardian to provide a child with basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education, and supervision, which are essential for the child's health, safety, and well-being. Vermont law also considers placing a child in physically or emotionally harmful situations as a form of neglect. The state's Department for Children and Families (DCF) is responsible for investigating reports of child neglect and taking appropriate action, which may include intervention to protect the child. Courts in Vermont take allegations of child neglect seriously and can impose a range of consequences. If neglect is substantiated, a parent or guardian may lose custody of the child. Additionally, depending on the severity of the neglect, criminal charges may be filed, potentially leading to fines, imprisonment, or both. Vermont's approach to child neglect is aimed at ensuring the safety and welfare of children and holding those responsible for neglect accountable.