Endangering the Welfare of Children in Pennsylvania

Many people assume that you can only be charged with child endangerment in Pennsylvania if you hurt a child on purpose. This isn’t the whole truth. Under state law, putting a child in a situation where their well-being is at risk while under adult supervision can lead to an endangerment charge.

This misunderstanding often shocks parents or guardians who suddenly find themselves under investigation. It gets even more complicated if someone reports you out of spite, leading to exaggerated or completely false accusations.

If you are dealing with allegations of child endangerment, don’t lose hope. With the help of an experienced Morgantown criminal lawyer, you can build a solid defense strategy to shield yourself from the serious penalties that come with a conviction.

Definition of Endangering the Welfare of Children

Pennsylvania’s criminal code (Chapter 18, Section 4304) defines child endangerment clearly. It states that anyone responsible for the welfare of a child under 18—whether a parent, guardian, or another supervising adult—commits this offense if they knowingly endanger the child’s welfare by violating a duty of care, protection, or support. This law also applies to people who employ or supervise others responsible for a child’s care.

It’s also crucial to know that obstructing or preventing the reporting of suspected child abuse while acting in an official capacity is a crime under Pennsylvania law. Each instance is treated as a separate offense. In certain situations, a pattern of behavior can elevate these violations to a felony charge.

Protecting your future and your family requires skilled legal support. Contact a qualified Morgantown DUI attorney who understands these charges and can fight to minimize the impact on your life.

Common Examples of Child Endangerment

Child endangerment is broader than most people realize. Essentially, any scenario that compromises a child’s safety can be considered a violation of their welfare, leading to potential arrest.

Courts typically use a standard based on what an average, reasonable parent would see as high-risk or morally wrong behavior. Because this definition is broad, it is vital to understand specific actions that often lead to charges in Pennsylvania:

• Driving under the influence (DUI) with a child in the vehicle.
• Letting a home become unsafe or unsanitary through neglect.
• Possessing or using illegal drugs while a child is present.
• Failing to seek necessary medical care for an injured or sick child.
• Allowing a child to ride on an ATV or open-air vehicle without proper safety restraints.
• Getting into a physical fight with a spouse that results in accidental injury to a child.

Penalties for Child Endangerment in Pennsylvania

The consequences for child endangerment depend heavily on the details of the specific case. Generally, it is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor. This carries a potential fine of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence of up to five years.

However, if the prosecution proves beyond a reasonable doubt that there is a history or “course of conduct” of such behavior, the charge escalates to a third-degree felony. A Morgantown criminal lawyer can explain that this increase brings harsher penalties, including fines up to $15,000 and prison time up to seven years.

Defending Against Child Endangerment Charges

Regardless of the situation, if you are facing these charges in Berks County, the Morgantown area, or nearby regions like West Virginia or Ohio, you need legal counsel who understands family court dynamics. At Mountaineer Law Group, our defense team is led by Sean Logue, who has the tenacity and expertise to advocate for your rights.

If you need a Morgantown DUI attorney, contact us today. Call (304) 381-3656 or visit our website to set up a free initial consultation.