Endangering the Welfare of Children

Many people believe that a child endangerment charge in Pennsylvania only applies when someone deliberately harms a child. This isn’t the whole story. Under Pennsylvania law, any scenario where a child’s welfare is put at risk while under an adult’s supervision can be considered child endangerment.

This common misunderstanding can catch parents or guardians by surprise when they are suddenly facing an investigation for this offense. The situation can become even more serious if a third party, motivated by ill will, files a report against you, leading to exaggerated or entirely false charges.

Fortunately, if you are accused of child endangerment, there is a path forward. Securing the help of a skilled Wellsburg criminal lawyer allows you to build a robust defense and protect yourself from the severe consequences that a conviction can bring.

Defining Endangering the Welfare of Children

Pennsylvania’s criminal code, under Chapter 18, Section 4304, provides a clear definition of child endangerment. It states that any person responsible for a child under 18—be it a parent, guardian, or another individual—who knowingly jeopardizes the child’s well-being by failing in their duty of care, protection, or support is guilty of this offense. This law also applies to anyone who supervises or employs individuals responsible for a child’s care.

It’s also crucial to understand that Pennsylvania law extends these charges to individuals in an official capacity who intentionally obstruct or prevent the reporting of suspected child abuse. Each instance of violating this duty, whether it’s a single act or part of a series, is treated as a separate offense. In cases involving a pattern of behavior, these violations may be escalated to a felony charge under the “course of conduct” provision. A knowledgeable Wellsburg DUI attorney can explain these complexities in detail.

When your child’s future and your own reputation are on the line, getting reliable legal representation is non-negotiable. It is vital to connect with a Wellsburg criminal lawyer who can defend your rights and work to lessen the potential impact of these serious allegations.

Examples of Child Endangerment

Child endangerment is a more widespread issue than many people think. Any circumstance that compromises a child’s safety can be classified as endangering their welfare, potentially leading to an arrest.

Courts typically use a standard based on what an average, reasonable parent or guardian would view as a significant risk or morally unacceptable behavior. Because this definition is quite broad, it is helpful to know specific actions that could lead to a child endangerment charge in Pennsylvania. A Wellsburg criminal lawyer can provide guidance on specific situations, but common examples include:

• Driving under the influence (DUI) with a child in the vehicle.
• Allowing a child’s living environment to become unsanitary or unsafe through neglect.
• Possessing or using illegal drugs in the presence of a child.
• Failing to seek or provide necessary medical care for a child who is sick or injured.
• Permitting a child to ride on an ATV or other open-air motor vehicle without proper safety restraints.
• Engaging in a physical fight with a spouse that results in accidental injury to a child.

And that’s why you need a Wellsburg DUI attorney for your better assistance.

Penalties for Child Endangerment in Pennsylvania

The penalties for child endangerment in Pennsylvania are determined by the specific details of the case. Generally, it is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor. A conviction for this level of offense can result in a fine of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence of up to 5 years.

However, the severity can increase. If the prosecution can prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused has a history of this behavior—referred to as a “course of conduct”—the charge is elevated to a third-degree felony. The penalties for this more serious offense include a fine of up to $15,000 and a potential prison term of up to 7 years. If you are facing such serious charges, a Wellsburg DUI attorney is essential.

Defending Against Child Endangerment Charges

Regardless of the specifics, if you are facing child endangerment charges in the Wellsburg area, or in West Virginia or Ohio, it is critical to work with a Wellsburg criminal lawyer. You need a legal professional who understands the complexities of the family court system and will aggressively advocate for the best possible resolution for your case.

At Logue Law Group, our domestic violence criminal defense attorneys, led by Sean Logue, have the expertise and determination needed to protect your rights and your future. A Wellsburg DUI attorney from our team can make a significant difference. Contact us today at (844) PITT-DUI or visit our website to schedule a free initial consultation and start building your defense.