Being accused of child endangerment can be difficult to come to terms with. You might be unsure of why or how you are facing these charges. This experience can be extremely upsetting, especially if you face losing custody or visitation rights.
The definition of child endangerment under state law is highly subjective, as law enforcement and other parties are free to interpret the “unreasonable” treatment of a minor on their own. As a result, you may find yourself facing unfounded child endangerment charges. If you have been accused of endangering a child, know that you have legal options on the table. An Arizona child endangerment lawyer can fight to ensure your side of this story is heard and will work tirelessly to protect your rights. Call today to discuss your case with a legal professional at Grand Canyon Law Group.
CHILD ENDANGERMENT UNDER ARIZONA LAW
State law does not directly outline its consequences for child endangerment. Rather, Arizona Revised Statute 13-1201 covers the endangerment of all individuals, whether they are adults or minors.
This statute specifically notes that to endanger another person, the accused must exhibit reckless behavior that creates a substantial risk that some kind of harm could occur. A knowledgeable attorney can contest child endangerment charges by establishing that the defendant’s behavior was not reckless or substantially risky.
For a free legal consultation with a child endangerment lawyer serving Arizona, call 480-400-5555
LEVELS OF CHILD ENDANGERMENT CHARGES
Child endangerment charges can range in severity. The most severe charges are Class 6 Felony endangerment charges, which involve incidents alleging a substantial risk of imminent death. A conviction on Class 6 felony charges could result in 18 months in prison and fines of $750 or more.
Charges involving imminent physical injury are less severe. This is a Class 1 Misdemeanor, which could lead to fines of up to $2,500 and six months in jail.
An Arizona attorney with experience handling child endangerment charges could further explain the criminal consequences associated with different charges.
Arizona Child Endangerment Lawyer Near Me 480-400-5555
CHILD ABUSE VERSUS CHILD ENDANGERMENT
Accusations of child endangerment are not the same thing as accusations of child abuse. Rather, child abuse includes crimes specifically involving minors that cause emotional or moral harm.
That said, child abuse and child endangerment may overlap in a case. Child abuse accusations could result in varying charges from misdemeanors to felonies. Anyone facing charges for both child endangerment and child abuse should discuss their defense options with an experienced attorney.
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SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION WITH AN ARIZONA CHILD ENDANGERMENT ATTORNEY
Children are entitled to heightened degrees of legal protection throughout the state of Arizona. Unfortunately, vindictive family members, partners, and even institutions can take advantage of those laws to hurt you. Uncontested child endangerment could result in time in prison, damaged relationships, and revoked parental rights.
If you believe you have been wrongfully accused of child endangerment, know that you have the right to defend yourself. An Arizona child endangerment lawyer can fight for your freedoms, building a strong defense on your behalf. Call today to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated member of the Grand Canyon Law Group team.
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