A charge for endangering a child is a serious offense that can involve fines and prison time while harming your reputation, employment, and future. However, being charged does not equate with being guilty. Recruiting a well-versed domestic violence attorney may be the positive difference your case needs.
If you are facing charges for risking a minor’s safety, a Charleston child endangerment lawyer may be able to help you understand your options and build a strong defense. Regardless of the circumstances, you still have protected rights under the law.
Penalties for Endangering a Child in Charleston
Pursuant to S.C. Code of Laws § 56-5-2947, the penalty for putting a kid in danger depends on the underlying offense the accused person is convicted of.
If someone is fined for an underlying offense, a court could impose an additional fee up to one-half of the maximum fine for the underlying offense. If someone is imprisoned for the underlying offense, the court may impose an extra prison term of up to one-half of the maximum sentence for the underlying offense.
Conviction for risking the safety of a kid could include suspension of licenses, enrollment in an alcohol and drug safety program, and an ignition interlock device requirement.
A Charleston attorney familiar with laws about putting kids at risk may be able to negotiate on the defendant’s behalf. They could also present the case in a way to obtain minimal charges, especially if this a first-time offense.
Risking a Child’s Safety in Motor Vehicles
According to South Carolina Code of Laws § 56-5-2947, a person who is 18 years of age or older can be found guilty of endangering a kid if they violate one of the following laws with a person under 16 years old in their car:
- Failure to stop their car when signaled by police
- Driving under the influence of drugs
- Driving with an unlawful alcohol concentration
- Felony driving under the influence
An individual must be convicted of the underlying offense, such as driving under the influence or failure to stop for police, before they could be convicted of risking the safety of the child. The endangerment charge is applied on top of the underlying offense, so the defendant must deal with two penalties simultaneously.
An accused person always has the right to appeal the charges. They could do this by proving the blood alcohol level was borderline, or the police imposed unfair penalties or failed to videotape the arrest. A skilled Charleston attorney experienced in combating child endangerment accusations could assess a case and find grounds to appeal the charges.
Get in Touch with a Charleston Child Endangerment Attorney Now
Being charged with endangering a kid, especially on top of a DUI charge, could be stressful and life-altering. A criminal record may have lasting consequences in finding a job, securing housing, and obtaining automobile insurance.
An experienced Charleston child endangerment lawyer could help guide you through the process, build a strong defense, and examine if there are grounds for appeal. Call today and find out how a seasoned criminal attorney with experience in these types of charges could help your case and protect your rights.