Definition of Child Abuse

New Jersey defines child abuse as the act of repeatedly hitting a child with a closed fist, with sufficient force to leave bruises still visible more than a day later.  N.J.S.A. 9:6-8.21(c)(4)(b)[.]” The DYFS (now known as DCPP) Policy and Procedures Manual, defines “child abuse” as physical injury “due to a parent’s/caregiver’s action or inaction that was neither necessary nor justified, neither reasonable nor appropriate.” The Manual further states that “a single incident may be enough to indicate abuse and corporal punishment is defined as `any punishment inflicted on the body.'”  Where one parent has committed an act of abuse upon a child that is often a key factor in a custody case. In those situations, Division records should be requested via Motion for an in camera review by the court.  #divorce #childsupport #childcustody #alimony #garneslaw