Child Negligence Lawyers

When a child is harmed due to the carelessness or negligence of others, it can be a devastating and life-altering experience for families. At William W. Price P.A., we are dedicated to providing compassionate and skilled legal representation for child negligence cases. As a highly experienced child negligence lawyer, we understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to fighting for justice on behalf of injured children and their families.

Schedule Consultation

With a foundation built on old-fashioned personal service and cutting-edge legal experience, our firm offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation to meet your needs. From Boca Raton to West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, and Jupiter, our team is here to help your voice be heard and justice served.

What Is Child Negligence?

Child negligence occurs when a caregiver, institution, or responsible party fails to provide adequate care, supervision, or attention, resulting in harm to a child. This type of negligence is a breach of the fundamental duty of care owed to children, who are especially vulnerable and dependent on adults for their safety and well-being. While accidents can happen, negligence involves a failure to take reasonable precautions or fulfill responsibilities to prevent foreseeable harm.

Settings Where Child Negligence Commonly Occurs

Negligence can happen in a variety of environments where children are entrusted to the care of others. Some of the most common settings include:

Daycare Centers: Daycares are obligated to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children. However, inadequate staff-to-child ratios, lack of proper training, or unsafe equipment can lead to injuries or neglect.
Schools: Schools are expected to supervise students, provide safe facilities, and address issues like bullying or harassment. Failing to meet these responsibilities can result in physical or emotional harm to children.
Summer Camps: Camps often involve physical activities and outdoor experiences. Without proper supervision or safety measures, children can be exposed to unnecessary risks.
Medical Facilities: Healthcare providers have a duty to deliver appropriate care to children. Neglect in this context could involve misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, or failure to recognize signs of abuse.
Private Homes or Babysitters: When a family entrusts their child to a babysitter or other caregiver, there is an expectation of attentiveness and responsibility. Neglect in this setting could include leaving a child unattended or failing to provide necessary care.

Types of Child Negligence

Negligence can manifest in various forms, including:

Lack of Supervision: This is one of the most common types of negligence. Whether on a playground, at home, or in a school setting, failure to supervise can lead to accidents, injuries, or even abduction.
Unsafe Environments: Exposing children to environments with hazards like toxic substances, broken equipment, or inadequate safety measures is a form of negligence.
Failure to Provide Medical Care: Caregivers or institutions may neglect to seek necessary medical treatment for a child, potentially worsening injuries or illnesses.
Educational Neglect: Schools and teachers who fail to address bullying, harassment, or provide a safe educational space can be held accountable for negligence.
Abuse Due to Oversight Failures: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse can occur when responsible parties fail to implement proper screening or oversight of staff and volunteers.

Consequences of Child Negligence

The effects of child negligence can be severe and long-lasting, affecting both physical and emotional health. Consequences may include:

Physical Injuries: From minor cuts and bruises to life-threatening conditions, physical injuries can have immediate and long-term impacts on a child’s health.
Emotional Trauma: Neglect and abuse can lead to psychological conditions like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Developmental Delays: A lack of proper care or stimulation may hinder a child’s emotional, social, or cognitive development.
Loss of Trust: Experiencing neglect from a caregiver or trusted institution can cause a child to struggle with forming healthy relationships in the future.

Legal Action in Child Negligence Cases

When negligence results in harm, legal action can help families hold the responsible party accountable and secure compensation. A lawsuit may help recover damages for:

Medical Expenses: Covering current and future medical bills related to the child’s injuries.
Pain and Suffering: Addressing both the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the incident.
Therapy and Counseling Costs: Providing resources for the child’s recovery and mental well-being.
Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, courts may award punitive damages to deter similar behavior in the future.

Pursuing legal action not only ensures justice for the victim but also raises awareness and encourages accountability, preventing similar incidents from occurring to other children. Families should work with a skilled child negligence lawyer who understands the emotional and legal complexities of these cases and can advocate effectively for their needs.

Why Hire a Child Negligence Lawyer?

A child negligence lawyer specializes in navigating the unique legal and emotional challenges these cases present. Here are some key reasons why hiring an attorney is critical:

Proving Negligence: Establishing that the responsible party’s actions (or inactions) caused harm can be complex. A skilled attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with professionals to build a strong case.
Understanding Florida Law: Florida laws regarding negligence and liability can be intricate. A lawyer with experience in this field ensures that your case complies with all legal requirements and deadlines.
Maximizing Compensation: Child negligence cases often involve significant medical bills, therapy costs, and emotional distress. An attorney can help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Advocating for Your Family: Dealing with the aftermath of negligence can be overwhelming. A dedicated lawyer provides the support and representation you need, allowing you to focus on your child’s recovery.

Why Choose William W. Price P.A.?

At William W. Price P.A., we bring nearly three decades of experience in personal injury and liability claims to every case we handle. Our team takes pride in providing direct access to attorneys, not paralegals, ensuring that your case receives the attention it deserves. When you choose us as your child negligence lawyer Florida, you can expect:

Personalized Service: We take the time to understand your story and tailor our approach to your family’s needs.
Proven Trackrecord: With an AV rating from Martindale Hubbell, our firm is recognized for its high level of skill, integrity, and success.
Relentless Advocacy: We are passionate about protecting the rights of children and holding negligent parties accountable.
Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation to case resolution, we are with you every step of the way.

Common Cases Handled by a Child Negligence Lawyer Florida

Child negligence can occur in various settings. Some of the cases we handle include:

1. Negligence in Daycare Facilities

Daycares are expected to provide a safe and nurturing environment. When they fail to meet this standard, children can suffer injuries from falls, choking, or abuse.

2. School Negligence

Schools have a duty to protect students. Failure to address bullying, unsafe premises, or inadequate supervision can lead to harm.

3. Medical Negligence

Doctors and healthcare providers must offer appropriate care. Misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, or errors during procedures can have lasting effects on a child’s health.

4. Negligent Supervision

Caregivers, babysitters, or institutions may be held liable if their lack of supervision results in injury or harm.

Steps to Take if Your Child Has Been Neglected

If you suspect your child has been a victim of negligence, take the following steps:

Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your child’s health and document any injuries or conditions.
Gather Evidence: Collect photographs, medical records, or witness statements related to the incident.
Report the Incident: Notify the appropriate authorities, such as local law enforcement or child protective services.
Contact a Lawyer: A child negligence lawyer Florida can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue justice.

e we will discuss the details of your situation, answer your questions, and outline your legal options. During this initial meeting, we will evaluate your case, explain the steps involved, and guide you through the legal process with compassion and professionalism. At William W. Price P.A., we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Contact Your Trusted Child Negligence Lawyer Today

At William W. Price P.A., we are dedicated to protecting the rights of children and families affected by negligence. If your child has been harmed, don’t wait to take action. Contact us today for a free consultation with a trusted child negligence lawyer. Let us help you secure justice and the compensation your family deserves.

Call us now or fill out our online form to get started. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION What is the statute of limitations for filing a child negligence lawsuit in Florida?

ANSWER
In most cases, the statute of limitations for filing a child negligence lawsuit in Florida is four years from the date of the incident. However, there are exceptions to this rule, particularly when the harm is not immediately discovered. For example, if injuries or negligence become apparent later, the time limit may be extended under the discovery rule. Additionally, cases involving government institutions, such as public schools, may have shorter deadlines and additional procedural requirements. Consulting a child negligence lawyer promptly ensures you don’t miss critical deadlines.
QUESTION How much does it cost to hire a child negligence lawyer?

ANSWER
At William W. Price P.A., we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay any upfront fees or out-of-pocket costs. Instead, our fees are a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. This arrangement allows families to seek justice without worrying about the financial burden of hiring a lawyer.
QUESTION Can I sue a daycare center for negligence?

ANSWER
Yes, you can sue a daycare center if their negligence caused harm to your child. Daycare centers have a legal obligation to provide a safe and secure environment for the children in their care. Common forms of negligence include inadequate supervision, unsafe facilities, failure to follow safety protocols, or hiring unqualified staff. A child negligence lawyer can investigate the daycare’s policies, staff training, and actions to determine if they breached their duty of care.
QUESTION What types of damages can I recover in a child negligence case?
ANSWER
In a child negligence case, families can seek compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Costs related to emergency care, hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatment.
- Therapy Costs: Expenses for physical therapy, psychological counseling, or other rehabilitative services.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for the long-term impact on the child’s quality of life, such as disabilities or trauma.
- Future Expenses: If the negligence results in long-term care needs or diminished earning capacity, those costs may be included.
A qualified attorney will calculate the full extent of your damages to ensure fair compensation.
QUESTION How do I prove negligence in a child injury case?
ANSWER
Proving negligence requires establishing four critical elements:
1. Duty of Care: The responsible party (e.g., daycare, school, caregiver) had a legal obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of your child.
2. Breach of Duty: The responsible party failed to meet that obligation through careless or negligent behavior.
3. Causation: The breach of duty directly caused harm to your child.
4. Damages: Your child suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm as a result of the negligence.
Evidence such as medical records, witness testimony, photographs, and professional opinions can strengthen your case.
QUESTION Will my case go to court?

ANSWER
While many child negligence cases settle out of court through negotiations with insurance companies or the responsible parties, some cases may require a trial to achieve justice. At William W. Price P.A., we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This proactive approach ensures we are ready to advocate for you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
QUESTION Can I file a claim if the negligence occurred at school?

ANSWER
Yes, schools—whether public or private—can be held accountable for neglect that results in harm to a child. Examples include failing to address bullying, inadequate supervision during activities, unsafe premises, or improper handling of medical emergencies. Public school cases may involve additional challenges, such as shorter deadlines and sovereign immunity laws, so consulting an experienced child negligence lawyer Florida is crucial.
QUESTION How long does a child negligence case take to resolve?

ANSWER
The timeline for resolving a child negligence case varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the availability of evidence, and the willingness of the other party to negotiate. Some cases are resolved in a few months, while others may take over a year, especially if they go to trial. Our team at William W. Price P.A. is committed to working efficiently while ensuring we build a strong case to maximize your compensation.
QUESTION What if my child was injured at a private institution?

ANSWER
Private institutions, such as private schools, daycare centers, or camps, can be held liable for negligence just like public institutions. These organizations are required to provide a safe environment and take reasonable measures to protect children. If their failure to do so caused harm to your child, you have the right to pursue compensation. We will thoroughly investigate the institution’s policies, staff training, and any contributing factors to build a compelling case.
QUESTION How do I get started with my case?

ANSWER
Getting started is simple. Contact our office for a free consultation where we will discuss the details of your situation, answer your questions, and outline your legal options. During this initial meeting, we will evaluate your case, explain the steps involved, and guide you through the legal process with compassion and professionalism. At William W. Price P.A., we’re here to help you every step of the way.