The prosecutor is faced with three problems unique to child abuse cases. First, the victim is a child who cannot testify effectively or without great trauma, and the principal witness is generally married to the suspect, against whom he or she cannot be compelled to testify. Another problem is that the Department of Pensions and Security deals with suspected child abuse cases much differently than do prosecutors. Social workers treat the problem of child abuse to improve conditions in particular families, while prosecutors enforce the laws against child abuse in the name of the people of the State. The recently enacted Alabama child abuse legislation provides for prosecutions for neglect as well as serious abuse of children. A final problem facing prosecutors is that incarceration of an abusive parent shifts responsibility of supporting both parent and child to the State. Two alternatives to incarceration could solve the problems of the State and particular families in less serious cases. One alternative is a pretrial diversion program to settle family disputes that result in child abuse. The second is a deferred immunity program in which an offender contracts with the prosecutor to delay prosecution indefinitely if certain corrective actions are taken, such as regular attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings or refraining from further acts of abuse. A hard line should still be followed by prosecutors in more serious cases.