Accusations of child endangerment are serious and can have life-altering consequences. We work to protect the parental rights and reputations of our clients, carefully analyzing each case. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we advocate for resolutions that minimize the impact of these charges on our clients’ lives.
In Pennsylvania, Endangering the Welfare of a Child (18 Pa. C.S. § 4304) occurs when a parent, guardian, or caretaker is alleged to have placed a child in a situation that could threaten their safety or well-being.
A person may be charged with child endangerment if they fail to provide proper supervision, food, shelter, or medical care. Additionally, exposing a child to hazardous environments or dangerous individuals, leaving them unattended in potentially unsafe situations, or engaging in reckless behavior that places them at risk of harm can also lead to charges.
The severity of the penalties depends on the nature of the offense. Child endangerment can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. A misdemeanor conviction may result in up to 5 years in prison and fines, whereas a felony conviction can carry up to 7 years in prison, higher fines, and long-term legal consequences. Beyond imprisonment and financial penalties, convictions can lead to loss of custody, professional license revocations, and mandatory child welfare interventions.
If you are facing allegations of endangering the welfare of a child, immediately seeking legal counsel is crucial. A strong legal defense can protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Contact M.L. Martin & Furnace, LLC today at 412-654-5300 to schedule a confidential consultation.
At M.L. Martin Law, we are dedicated to offering clear, compassionate, and strategic legal support across a wide range of practice areas. Our experience allows us to address the unique challenges you face, whether in family law, criminal defense, or beyond. We believe that every case is an opportunity to empower our clients with the information and guidance they need to make informed decisions.
In the following case studies, you’ll see how our tailored approach has helped individuals achieve successful outcomes. By listening to your concerns and applying innovative legal strategies, we aim to deliver results that protect your rights and secure your future. Discover how we can make a difference in your case, just as we have for so many others.