Section 20 Neglect Generally

• Library: Juvenile Law 2011

Section 210.110(12), RSMo Supp. 2010, defines “neglect” as “failure to provide, by those responsible for the care, custody, and control of the child, the proper or necessary support, education as required by law, nutrition or medical, surgical, or any other care necessary for the child’s well‑being.” “[T]he term neglect has not been narrowly defined by Missouri case law.” Ludvik v. Ludvik, 969 S.W.2d 284, 286 (Mo. App. E.D. 1998).

The § 210.110(12) definition of “neglect” is not confined to acts committed by parents or guardians. The section defines “neglect” broadly to reach acts by persons “responsible for the care, custody, and control of the child.” These persons may include “other members of the child’s household, or those exercising supervision over a child for any part of a twenty‑four‑hour day” and “any adult who, based on relationship to the parents of the child, members of the child’s household or the family, has access to the child.” Section 210.110(16).

The juvenile or family court thus may find that “[t]he behavior or associations of the child are...