Sacramento Child Endangerment Defense Lawyer
Protecting Your Rights Against Child Abuse Allegations
Being accused of child endangerment or child abuse is a serious matter that can have lasting consequences on your life, family, and legal rights. California law imposes harsh penalties for individuals accused of putting a child in a dangerous situation, even when no harm occurred. A conviction can lead to jail or prison time, loss of custody or visitation rights, and damage to your reputation.
At Crowell Law Offices, our experienced defense attorneys understand the complexities of child abuse cases. We provide strong legal representation for parents, caregivers, and others facing child abuse charges or false accusations in Sacramento County and beyond.
What Is Considered Child Endangerment Under California Law?
Unlike child abuse, which involves intentional harm, child endangerment occurs when a child is placed in a situation where they are at risk of suffering physical injury or mental suffering. Under California law, child endangerment can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the severity of the allegations.
Examples of situations that may lead to child endangerment charges include:
- Leaving a child in an unsafe environment
- Driving under the influence with a child in the car
- Failing to provide necessary medical care
- Using excessive corporal punishment beyond a reasonable discipline
- Exposing a child to dangerous substances or violent behavior
Even if the accused did not act willfully to harm the child, they may still face criminal charges if prosecutors believe the child was placed in a harmful situation.
Penalties for Child Endangerment in California
The penalties for a child endangerment conviction depend on whether the charge is filed as a misdemeanor or a felony.
Misdemeanor child endangerment:
- Up to one year in county jail
- Fines and court-ordered programs
- Summary probation
Felony child endangerment (when there is a risk of great bodily injury or death):
- Two, four, or six years in state prison
- Additional penalties if the child suffered great bodily injury
- Formal probation if granted probation by the court
A conviction can also result in a protective order, restricting contact with the child or family members, and may impact custody and visitation rights in family court.
Defending Against Child Abuse Allegations
If you have been accused of child abuse or child endangerment, it is crucial to have a skilled defense attorney who can gather evidence, challenge the prosecution’s claims, and fight to protect your rights. Some common defense strategies include:
- Proving the accusations are false allegations made out of revenge or misunderstanding
- Demonstrating that the child was not placed in actual harm or danger
- Showing that the accused was exercising reasonable discipline
- Highlighting lack of evidence in the police report or witness statements
False accusations of child abuse are unfortunately common in custody battles and disputes between parents or family members. A trusted criminal defense lawyer can help expose false accusations and work to get charges reduced or dismissed.
Why Choose Crowell Law Offices?
Our law office has extensive experience defending individuals against child abuse allegations in Sacramento County. We understand the emotional and legal challenges that come with these charges and are committed to protecting your future.
When you work with our defense attorneys, we will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into your case
- Challenge any weak or misleading evidence presented by prosecutors
- Work to get charges reduced or dismissed when possible
- Represent you in court and advocate for the best possible outcome
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you are facing child endangerment charges or have been falsely accused of child abuse, do not wait to seek legal guidance. A trusted Sacramento Child Endangerment Defense Lawyer at Crowell Law Offices can help protect your rights and build a strong defense. Call us today at (916) 303-2800 to schedule your free consultation. We are ready to fight for you and guide you through this difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between child endangerment and child abuse?
Child abuse involves intentional harm to a child, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, or emotional abuse. Child endangerment, on the other hand, occurs when a child is placed in a dangerous situation, even if no injury occurs.
What should I do if I am falsely accused of child abuse?
If you are falsely accused of child abuse, do not speak to law enforcement without a defense attorney. Gather any evidence that can support your case, such as witness statements, and seek immediate legal representation.
Can I go to jail for a misdemeanor child endangerment charge?
Yes, misdemeanor child endangerment can result in up to one year in county jail. However, with the help of a skilled defense attorney, you may be able to avoid jail time through probation or other alternatives.
Will a child endangerment conviction affect my custody rights?
Yes, a child endangerment conviction can impact your custody and visitation rights, especially if the family court believes the child is in danger. A defense attorney can help fight these allegations to protect your parental rights.
How can a defense attorney help with my case?
A defense attorney will examine the details of your case, challenge weak evidence, and advocate for the best possible outcome, whether that means getting charges dismissed, reduced, or negotiating a favorable plea deal.
