No matter the circumstances, child endangerment charges are always serious and warrant considering legal counsel. Accusations of putting a child’s safety at risk can stem from various different behaviors under Georgia Law.

If you are charged with child endangerment in Newnan, your freedom may be at risk if you are convicted. Speaking with a Newnan child endangerment lawyer can set you up for success as your prepare to defend against the charges that have been brought against you. A well-versed domestic violence defense attorney has the skills and training required to ensure your best interests are taken care of during your case.

Endangering a Child is a Crime

Whenever someone commits driving under the influence while transporting a child under the age of fourteen, they may be charged for jeopardizing the safety of the child, regardless of their relationship.

Even if a kid is not physically hurt, a caregiver can still be accused and convicted of child endangerment, which is distinct from child cruelty charges if they drive under the influence with a child in the vehicle.

Anyone unsure if their alleged actions constitute child endangerment should contact a Newnan attorney right away.

DUI Charges When Children are Involved

DUI charges are taken very seriously, and they are rendered even more harshly if minors are involved. Prosecutors and judges heavily scrutinize accused DUI drivers in these circumstances.

Under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 40-6-391, if someone has a kid in their vehicle and is charged with DUI, they will face an extra DUI penalty. The penalties for child endangerment and the underlying DUI offense may not be combined.

Even if the accused party has a stellar driving record, they can be charged with DUI and child endangerment offenses at the same time. In many child endangerment cases that involve DUIs, it is necessary to beat the underlying under the influence charge to overcome the associated child endangerment charge. Obtaining legal representation from a skilled defense attorney in Newnan can be necessary if you were accused of jeopardizing a kid’s safety.

Penalties for Child Endangerment in Newnan

The state has harsh penalties that are far-reaching for individuals who are convicted of putting a child at risk. Legally, a convicted party may face imprisonment up to 12 months and monetary fines up to $1,000 for charges stemming from first or second offenses. Subsequent charges (which are felonies) can carry prison sentences from one to three years and fines up to $5,000.

Furthermore, there are consequences that are separate from prison time or fees. A person who has a job as a teacher, healthcare provider, bus driver, or coach can easily find themselves without work. Obtaining another job related to kids will be difficult at best.

The after-effects can, in some cases, be just as damaging as the legal penalties. A lawyer in Newnan with experience handling child safety cases understands the severity of the charges and will seek to protect your reputation.

Contact A Child Endangerment Defense Attorney in Newnan

Minor endangerment charges are serious and should not be taken lightly. Your freedom and reputation are sacred enough to protect with the best effort possible.

Contacting a Newnan child endangerment lawyer can help you build a legal defense and fight against your charges. A consultation allows us to discuss your case confidentially and plan your next move. Call our office today.

J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC

J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC
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