Missouri Daycare Abuse Lawyer

It’s almost weekly that we hear about child abuse cases happening at daycare centers in Missouri, including Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, and Independence.

It’s essential for parents to be aware of the warning signs of child abuse and to know what they need to do if they suspect their child is being abused by daycare staff. If your child has been the victim of daycare abuse and you would like to speak with an attorney about your legal options (for free), call us today at 1-877-403-9378.

One of the best ways a parent or guardian can protect their children from daycare abuse is to become educated about the types of abuse and the signs. There are generally three categories of abuse:

1. Neglect — Neglect is one of the most subtle forms of abuse due to the fact it is so difficult to detect and prove. This might include withholding food or failing to change a baby on a regular basis. These are things that do not leave any physical signs of abuse, but can lead to physical and emotional harm.
2. Physical and Sexual Abuse — These two types of abuse are much easier to detect because they usually leave physical signs. Some of the signs of physical and sexual abuse might include swelling, cuts, bruises, and other signs to indicate someone has hit or sexually assaulted him or her.
3. Psychological Abuse — One of the most damaging types of abuse leaves no outward signs. Psychological abuse takes many different forms (include bullying by staff).

Reporting Daycare Abuse

Once a parent or guardian suspects abuse is occurring in a daycare environment, the first steps should be to remove the child from their care, obtain a medical examination, and report the abuse. While this is easier with physical and sexual abuse, a medical professional is often able to determine whether there’s a possibility of neglect or psychological abuse. The documentation makes it easier for the licensing agency to make a report and take action against the daycare provider and employee(s) involved.

All complaints against regulated child care programs in Missouri are investigated, but items that are not covered under the state regulations are not subject to investigation.

All complaints that are filed are assigned to a specialist in Missouri for investigation. If the violation is of a serious nature, it is referred to the central office where it may be processed for legal action. Both the investigation and ensuing legal action take time, but any complaints that are proven to be rule violations are available for review by the public. There is some information (such as the names of the children) that remains confidential and are not open for disclosure to the public.

If you believe your child has been abused at a daycare center in Missouri, our firm may be able to help you obtain the proof you need. We can also assist you in filing the necessary reports and obtaining the proof that is necessary during the investigation. For a free consultation, call us at 1-877-403-9378.