Legal Question in Family Law in California

Unfortunately, just because her mom is very strict toward your friend, that's her right as a parent and there's nothing anyone else can do. However, if there is genuine physical child abuse going on, that causes injuries or damage to your friend, then her mom will be prosecuted. A parent can physically discipline their child as long it does not cause any marks or anything lasting damage. Your friend may just be experiencing that, which is not enough. Anyway, if Child Protective Services has already been investigating, they apparently have not believed your friend. She would need to have hard evidence like pictures, videos or witnesses who can substantiate there is physical abuse going on and not just legitimate discipline, before she could be taken away to a foster home.

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