Columbus Foster Care Abuse Lawyer

Foster Care Abuse Attorney in Columbus

Children in foster care have probably already suffered some kind of mistreatment or neglect from their parents. Under ideal circumstances, their foster home should provide a safe and happy environment where they can heal and flourish. But this is not always the case. If you know a child who has suffered abuse, you may need a Columbus foster care abuse & neglect lawyer.

The team at Ryan Johnson Trial Lawyer has over a decade of experience helping clients recover compensation for abuse suffered while in foster care. Ryan Johnson and his team are dedicated to helping the most vulnerable clients achieve justice.

Understanding Georgia’s Foster Care System

Georgia’s foster care system oversees about 11,000 children. It is managed by the Department of Family and Children Services and is designed to provide a safe place for children to live when their biological parents are unable to take care of them. Foster care agencies are required to conduct screening tests, background checks, home safety evaluations, and training to manage the potential challenges that come with fostering a child.

In a recent audit, it was found that the DFCS failed to address safety concerns 84% of the time. When an agency fails to meet its obligations and regulations set by the Georgia Comp, R. & Regs. R. 290-2-.07, it can lead to neglect and abuse. Some signs of abuse or neglect in foster care include:

• Sudden behavioral changes
• Unexplained injuries
• Malnutrition
• Expressions of fear or discomfort around their foster caregivers

Evidence Needed in Foster Care Abuse Case

Proving negligence in a foster care abuse case requires evidence demonstrating that their actions contributed to harming a child. A Columbus foster care abuse and neglect attorney can help you gather evidence that may include:

• Photos and videos of injuries and bruises
• Medical records
• Substance abuse test for caregivers
• Witness statements
• Documented check-ins by DFCS

The foster care abuse & neglect penalties range from license revocation to criminal charges.

Possible Damages in a Foster Care Abuse Case

In Columbus, victims and Survivors of foster care abuse and neglect may be able to seek compensation for damages through a civil claim filed in the Muscogee County Superior Court. The amount and type of compensation depend on the case, but some common recoverable damages include:

• Cost of medical treatment and therapy
• Loss of future ability to earn income
• Educational losses
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Pain and suffering

Determining the amount of damages takes a detailed assessment of the victim’s past and future needs. It is often assessed by doctors, therapists, and financial professionals.

Hire a Foster Care Abuse and Neglect Lawyer

If you think you have a case against a foster parent or agency, it’s important to hire a foster care abuse and neglect lawyer. An experienced attorney can look at your case and guide you through the legal steps necessary to hold the negligent parties responsible. Whether you are a survivor or you know about abuse in the foster care system, schedule a consultation with Ryan Johnson Trial Lawyer, today.