DUI and Child Endangerment

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in many states, and when a child is involved, the charges escalate from a misdemeanor to a felony, with the additional offense of child endangerment. This separate charge carries its own severe penalties. If you find yourself in this situation, seeking the guidance of a skilled and aggressive Washington criminal defense attorney is crucial.

Consequences of a DUI With Child

Endangerment Charges

A criminal conviction can have far-reaching consequences, particularly for professionals. It can lead to disciplinary action, jeopardize professional licenses, and even result in job loss. Being unable to drive to work due to a DUI-related license suspension or facing a strict policy on driving under the influence from your employer can significantly impact your employment. Moreover, when child endangerment charges are involved, the situation worsens, especially if you work with children. In some cases, it may even permanently bar you from working in certain fields. Occupation examples include:

• Sports coaches
• Daycare workers
• Bus drivers
• Teachers.

If the child involved in the incident is your own, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Office of Children, Youth, and Families may initiate an investigation. This could lead to a prolonged fight to retain custody of your child and their siblings.

DUI With Child Endangerment Penalties

Pennsylvania has stringent laws regarding DUI with child endangerment. As a first-time offender, you may face 100 hours of community service and a fine of $1,000 or more. For second-time offenses, jail time of one to six months and a fine of at least $2,500 are mandatory. Third or subsequent convictions can result in a jail term of six months to two years.

Moreover, standard DUI penalties still apply, leaving you burdened with the installation and use of an ignition interlock device. This means having to breathe into the device each time you start your vehicle, along with facing substantial fines, potential jail time, and lost work hours. Your license may even be completely suspended, forcing you to rely on others for transportation.

Navigating Pennsylvania’s complex DUI laws and court system can be daunting. However, you don’t have to face it alone. By hiring a knowledgeable Washington PA DUI attorney, you can greatly increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Attempting to represent yourself will likely lead to harsher penalties and unfavorable results. Remember, your chosen attorney will need all the facts to mount a robust defense, so don’t hesitate to confide in them and provide thorough details.

If you are currently charged with DUI and child endangerment, consider seeking assistance from the Logue Criminal Defense team. They serve Washington, PA, as well as West Virginia and Ohio. Contact them today for a free initial consultation with a skilled Washington PA DUI lawyer at 844.PITT.DUI or (412) 389-0805. Alternatively, you can reach out to them through their website.

Remember, time is of the essence. The sooner you secure legal representation, the better your chances of achieving the positive outcome you desire and deserve. Don’t delay – act now!