Facing reckless endangerment charges in New York? Don’t panic. With an experienced criminal defense lawyer, you can fight the allegations and avoid harsh penalties.
Read on to learn why hiring a New York reckless endangerment attorney is critical for the best outcome in your case.
What is Reckless Endangerment in NY?
Reckless endangerment involves recklessly engaging in conduct that creates a substantial risk of physical injury to others. Charges include:
- Reckless endangerment 2nd degree (class A misdemeanor)
- Reckless endangerment 1st degree (class D felony)
Penalties include heavy fines, probation, and years in prison if convicted. Even misdemeanors can destroy job prospects and tarnish reputations.
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(212) 300-5196Common Defenses a Lawyer Can Raise
Skilled NY criminal defense lawyers often get charges reduced or dismissed by arguing:
- You didn’t actually create a substantial risk
- Your conduct wasn’t reckless
- No harm was intended
- False or mistaken allegations
- Improper police conduct
An attorney thoroughly investigates the circumstances to build the strongest defense.
Todd Spodek
Lead Attorney & Founder
Featured on Netflix's "Inventing Anna," Todd Spodek brings decades of high-stakes criminal defense experience. His aggressive approach has secured dismissals and acquittals in cases others deemed unwinnable.
When is Reckless Endangerment a Felony in NY?
If the conduct risks serious physical injury and involves:
You were driving aggressively through a residential neighborhood, weaving between lanes and running a stop sign, when a pedestrian had to jump out of the way to avoid being hit. Police arrested you and charged you with reckless endangerment in the second degree.
What am I facing with a reckless endangerment charge in New York, and is there any way to get this reduced or dismissed?
Under New York Penal Law § 120.20, reckless endangerment in the second degree is a Class A misdemeanor carrying up to one year in jail, probation, and a permanent criminal record. If the conduct is deemed to create a grave risk of death, you could face reckless endangerment in the first degree under Penal Law § 120.25, which is a Class D felony punishable by up to seven years in prison. A skilled defense attorney can challenge whether your conduct truly rose to the level of 'recklessness' as defined by the statute, argue that no substantial risk of serious physical injury actually existed, or negotiate for a reduction to a lesser charge such as disorderly conduct. Early intervention by an experienced New York criminal defense lawyer is critical to preserving evidence and building the strongest possible defense.
This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.
- Use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument
- Recklessly starting a fire
- Manufacturing or transporting explosives
Then first-degree reckless endangerment felony charges apply. You face up to 7 years in prison if convicted.
