In regards to divorce cases and family law, child abuse is defined as any action taken by a parent, or permitted by a parent, that is harmful to a child, including physical, mental, emotional, or sexual abuse. Additionally, some forms of child abuse include exposing a child to dangerous or egregiously inappropriate situations or environments. Allegations of child abuse not only face criminal inquiries, but also, must be taken into consideration by the courts when establishing custody arrangements. In most cases, judges will only make custody decisions that are in the best interest of the child or children.