A controversial law banning parents from smacking their children has been passed by the New Zealand parliament. Prior to the new law, parents could use "reasonable force" to discipline their child. However, the new bill provides police with ample discretion over whether to prosecute offending parents.
Proponents of the bill believe it closes a loophole in child abuse cases where parents claim abusive disciplinary practices were "reasonable" and not illegal. Opponents claim that it will criminalize parents who are simply trying to control their children.
I am not aware of any law in Iowa that specifically prohibits physical punishment; however, if the discipline goes beyond the bounds of decency, or reasonableness, the Department of Human Services has jurisdiction to investigate the same and has the subsequent power to remove children from abusive homes. Of course, if the punishment causes intentional injury you may be looking at a child endangerment or other similar charge.
skip to main |
skip to sidebar
Jennifer Jaskolka-Brown, an Iowa attorney located at 6601 Westown Parkway, Suite 200, West Des Moines, Iowa, (515) 247-4705, practices in general civil litigation with an emphasis in Iowa Family Law issues. She provides guidance in family law matters from divorce, paternity, disestablishment of paternity to adoption,and guardianships. She also provides representation in a wide-variety of civil litigation issues.
