Defending those Accused of Abuse and Neglect

If you’ve received a 51A letter from the state of Massachusetts alleging that you have abused or neglected your child, you probably feel like your world is turning upside down. When the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) threatens to take your children away or terminate your parental rights, you need to act quickly and decisively.

I have 35 years of experience in family and juvenile law and have handled hundreds of DCF cases. I can help you challenge false allegations against you and guide you through the process so that you can get out from under the control of the court.

Giving you the Experience you Need Through Terrifying Times

Getting a 51A letter is terrifying and humiliating. All of a sudden an outsider is making judgments about your parenting abilities. Most of us react with anger and a feeling of powerlessness. In these cases, it is critical to know your rights and how to assert them. I work to educate my clients and give them the tools they will need to defend themselves and preserve their family unit.

I have had great success defending parents accused of abuse and neglect. In a highly-publicized case involving the twins born to the “A” family, I helped the children’s parents defend themselves against Boston Children’s Hospital which had falsely accused them of child abuse. After experiencing a traumatic and painful separation, the twins were returned to the custody of their parents where they have thrived ever since.

Child abuse and neglect cases are serious – the most fundamental right – that of raising your own children – is at stake. I work with my clients to develop a solid strategy to overcome the obstacles and regain custody of their children.

Key Practice Areas

• Divorce
• Mediation
• Collaborative Law
• Child Custody & Visitation
• Child Support & Alimony
• Division of Assets
• Modifications & Contempts
• Juvenile Guardianships
• Juvenile Law / Abuse & Neglect
• Paternity