DUI and Child Endangerment

Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs is a serious crime in many states. The situation becomes even more severe when a minor is present in the vehicle. In such cases, the offense can be elevated from a misdemeanor to a felony, and an additional charge of child endangerment is often filed. This secondary charge comes with its own significant penalties. If you are facing this complex legal issue, it is vital to secure the representation of a skilled criminal lawyer.

Consequences of a DUI With Child Endangerment Charges

A criminal record can have a lasting and negative impact on your life, especially for professionals. It can trigger disciplinary actions from licensing boards, put your professional credentials at risk, and may even lead to termination of your employment. For instance, a DUI-related license suspension could prevent you from commuting to work, or your employer might have a zero-tolerance policy regarding impaired driving. A proficient Wheeling DUI attorney can help you navigate these professional challenges.

The situation becomes significantly more complicated when child endangerment is involved, particularly if your job involves working with children. A conviction could permanently prohibit you from employment in certain professions. Examples of such occupations include:

• Sports coaches
• Daycare workers
• Bus drivers
• Teachers

If the child involved in the DUI incident is your own, the West Virginia Department of Human Services may launch an investigation into your family. This could result in a difficult and lengthy legal battle to maintain custody of your child and any of their siblings. Seeking advice from a Wheeling criminal lawyer is essential in these circumstances.

DUI With Child Endangerment Penalties

West Virginia enforces strict laws for cases involving DUI with child endangerment. A first-time offender could be sentenced to 100 hours of community service and be required to pay a fine of $1,000 or more. A second offense carries mandatory penalties of one to six months in jail and a minimum fine of $2,500. A third or subsequent conviction can lead to a prison sentence of six months to two years.

On top of these penalties, standard DUI consequences will also apply. This often includes the mandated installation and use of an ignition interlock device, which requires you to breathe into it every time you start your car. You will also face substantial fines, possible jail time, and lost wages from missed work. Your driver’s license might be fully suspended, leaving you dependent on others for transportation. A knowledgeable Wheeling DUI attorney can explain these penalties in detail.

Navigating West Virginia’s intricate DUI laws and court procedures can be overwhelming. However, you do not have to face this challenge by yourself. By hiring an experienced legal professional, you can significantly improve your chances of securing a more favorable outcome. Representing yourself is likely to result in more severe penalties and a less desirable result. Remember that your chosen Wheeling criminal lawyer will need a complete account of the facts to build a strong defense, so it’s important to be forthcoming and provide all relevant details.

If you are currently facing charges for DUI and child endangerment, consider reaching out to the legal team at Logue Law Group. They serve clients in Wheeling and the surrounding areas. Contact them today for a free initial consultation with a skilled attorney.

Remember that time is critical in these situations. The sooner you obtain legal representation, the better your prospects are for achieving the positive outcome you hope for and are entitled to. Do not wait— take action now by calling Wheeling DUI attorney at 844.PITT.DUI.