Child Abuse & Neglect in the State of Maryland

Child abuse and neglect cases involve serious risks to a child’s safety and often require legal action. CAPTA defines abuse as actions or inactions resulting in harm or serious risk. States establish civil statutes to guide mandatory reporting and criminal statutes to prosecute offenders. In Maryland, when a child is removed from their home due to abuse or neglect, social services may file a Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) case. This process involves hearings to determine the child’s needs and decide on appropriate care, such as supervised parental care, foster care, or placement with relatives. Regular Permanency Planning Hearings ensure...

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