In Georgia, what is the term used for a child who has been abused or neglected?

In Georgia, the term "Dependent Child" is used to refer to a child who has been abused or neglected. This legal classification is important because it recognizes the child's vulnerable status and the need for intervention by the state or child welfare agencies to ensure their safety and well-being.

A dependent child may have been subjected to various forms of maltreatment, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, or inadequate supervision. The classification helps facilitate appropriate legal and social services responses, including foster care placement or involvement of the juvenile court system, to protect the child's interests and address the circumstances leading to their dependency.

Other terms such as "Custodial Child," "Delinquent Child," and "At-Risk Child" do not directly pertain to the specific situation of abuse or neglect. For instance, a custodial child might refer to a child who is in the custody of a parent or guardian, and a delinquent child typically refers to a minor who has committed an act that would be considered a crime if committed by an adult. An at-risk child may refer to a child facing various challenges, but it does not necessarily imply that they have experienced abuse or neglect. Thus, "Dependent Child" is the most precise term used in Georgia law for