Case Consultation
(423) 888-3030
When an individual allows a child in their care to remain in unsafe, inappropriate, or unhealthy conditions or situations, the state could charge them with child endangerment. If you are facing these serious charges, it could be in your best interest to contact a skilled domestic violence attorney for assistance.
There are a variety of negative connotations associated with a conviction, but a Ringgold child endangerment lawyer could help defend you and your rights through the process.
Child endangerment laws cover physical pain, mental pain and suffering, and the anguish of a child that an adult inflicts upon them. Child endangerment is different from abuse because it does not involve the defendant directly causing harm to the child. However, putting a child at risk is still a serious charge that carries stiff penalties, including the possibility of steep fines and time in prison.
To successfully convict an individual of endangerment, the prosecutor must prove to the local court of law beyond a reasonable doubt that a person knowingly and intentionally placed the child in a dangerous situation. Individuals in Ringgold facing child endangerment charges should contact an attorney as soon as possible to fight the prosecution’s claims and potentially avoid the heaviest of penalties.
Much of the time, law enforcement officers issue endangerment charges while investigating a separate crime or incident that is taking place. For example, a driver whom an officer pulls over for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol could also face child endangerment charges.
Under Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 40-6-391, if a court of law finds a person guilty of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol while there is a child under the age of 14 in the car with them, they could face endangerment charges.
Officers also commonly issue child endangerment citations for the following:
Because child endangerment penalties can be harsh, an individual should not face a court hearing without the experience of a lawyer in Ringgold by their side.
O.C.G.A § 40-6-391 further dictates that the child endangerment offense cannot merge into the same case with the underlying DUI offense. The individual must face separate charges, convictions, and sentencing for driving under the influence and child endangerment charges. A person facing either of these serious offenses should contact a local lawyer right away to begin protecting their rights and preparing their defense.
If you are facing child endangerment charges, you should consider retaining a Ringgold child endangerment lawyer right away to help ensure your rights and interests are protected from the system.
An experienced member of our firm could h help you find the best defense possible for your circumstances. Call today to schedule a consultation.