**The Case That Changed Child Abuse: A Landmark Legal Battle That Forced America to Confront a Silent Epidemic**

Mary Ellen Wilson Case: The Case That Changed Child Abuse

by James Turnage

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	769 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	364 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Child abuse is a horrific crime that has been prevalent throughout history. In the United States, it was not until the mid-20th century that the issue began to receive the attention it deserved. One pivotal case, known as **The Case That Changed Child Abuse**, played a major role in bringing this silent epidemic to the forefront of American consciousness.

The case involved a four-year-old girl named Lisa Steinberg. In November 1987, Lisa was brutally beaten by her adoptive father Joel and died from her injuries. The case shocked the nation and led to a public outcry for justice.

Lisa's case was unique in several ways. First, the abuse was particularly severe and resulted in her death. Second, Joel Steinberg was a prominent attorney who had previously worked as a legal aid to the New York City Council. Third, the case occurred at a time when child abuse was still largely ignored by society.

The trial of Joel Steinberg was closely watched by the media and the public. The prosecution argued that Steinberg had intentionally killed Lisa, while the defense claimed that he had lost control of his temper. The jury ultimately found Steinberg guilty of manslaughter and sentenced him to eight years in prison.

The Steinberg case had a profound impact on American society. It helped to raise awareness of child abuse and led to a number of changes in the way that cases were handled. For example, the case led to the creation of the National Child Abuse Hotline and the passage of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act.

In the years since the Steinberg case, there have been many other cases that have helped to raise awareness of child abuse. However, the Steinberg case remains one of the most important landmarks in the history of child welfare. It is a reminder of the horrors that children can endure and the importance of fighting for their protection.

**The Legacy of The Case That Changed Child Abuse**

The Case That Changed Child Abuse has had a lasting impact on American society. Here are some of the most important legacies of the case:

• Increased awareness of child abuse. The Steinberg case helped to bring child abuse to the forefront of American consciousness. It showed that child abuse was not just a rare occurrence, but a widespread problem that affected children of all races, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Improved legal protections for children. The Steinberg case led to a number of changes in the way that child abuse cases were handled. These changes included the creation of specialized child abuse courts, the appointment of child advocates, and the establishment of mandatory reporting laws.
• Increased funding for child abuse prevention and treatment programs. The Steinberg case helped to raise awareness of the need for more resources to prevent and treat child abuse. This led to increased funding for programs that provide support to families and children who have been affected by abuse.

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The Case That Changed Child Abuse was a landmark legal battle that forced America to confront a silent epidemic. The case had a profound impact on American society and helped to improve the lives of countless children. The legacy of the case continues to this day, as we continue to work to prevent and treat child abuse and to protect the rights of children.

Mary Ellen Wilson Case: The Case That Changed Child Abuse

by James Turnage

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	769 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	364 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE