Child abuse is often a matter for both civil and criminal courts. It can cause both physical and mental damage to the child.
The long-term effects of such behavior on the part of parents, other family members, guardians, other care givers, family friends, or neighbors often divides both the family and the community in which it occurs.
A claim for a child’s damage, whether abuse or other injuries, is brought by their parent or guardian on behalf of the child.