Child Endangerment Lawyers
Child Endangerment DUI Lawyers: Protecting Your Rights and Your Family
What is a Child Endangerment DUI?
Getting pulled over for a DUI is bad enough; but if you had a child in the car, you could be facing child endangerment DUI charges. This is treated as a really serious crime, because you put a kid‘s life at risk – it’s like an aggravated DUI.The laws vary by state, but generally, a child endangerment DUI means driving under the influence with a minor (under 18) in the vehicle. It doesn’t matter if the child was yours or not. Just having them in the car while you were intoxicated is enough to get hit with these charges.
Why Child Endangerment DUIs are So Serious
Drunk driving is dangerous enough; adding a child to the mix makes it way worse. Kids are fragile – they can’t protect themselves or get out of a bad situation. Having an impaired adult behind the wheel puts their lives at serious risk.Plus, there‘s the emotional trauma to consider. Imagine being a little kid trapped in a car with a drunk driver swerving all over the road. That’s the stuff of nightmares! It can really mess kids up psychologically.So the courts don’t mess around with child endangerment DUIs. The potential penalties are much harsher than a regular DUI. We‘re talking longer jail sentences, bigger fines, and a greater likelihood of getting your license revoked or having to use an ignition interlock device.
Defenses for Child Endangerment DUI Cases
Just because you were charged doesn’t mean you’re automatically guilty. A good DUI defense lawyer will look at all angles to get the charges reduced or dismissed, like:
- Challenging the traffic stop’s legality
- Questioning the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood tests
- Arguing the “endangerment” aspect if the child wasn’t actually put in harm’s way
- Investigating if police followed proper procedures
With a child endangerment DUI, there’s a lot more at stake than just a simple DUI. You could be looking at serious jail time, fines, and getting put on the child abuse registry – which makes it hard to get jobs working with kids. Plus, there’s the risk of having your parental rights terminated if the court sees you as an unfit parent.So you really need to bring in the big guns and hire an experienced DUI lawyer who‘s an expert in these types of cases. They know how to craft a strong defense strategy and fight for the best possible outcome.
Potential Penalties for Child Endangerment DUI
The penalties get way stricter when a child is involved in a DUI case. While the specifics vary between states, you could be facing:
Jail Time
With a regular first-offense DUI, you might just get probation or a short jail stint. But with child endangerment, you’re looking at significantly more time behind bars – potentially years, not days or weeks.
Larger Fines
The fines can reach into the tens of thousands of dollars range. The court wants to really punish you for putting a child at risk.
License Revocation
There’s a much higher chance of getting your license suspended or permanently revoked after a child endangerment DUI conviction.
Ignition Interlock Device
You’ll likely have to get an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle at your own expense. This breathalyzer won’t let your car start if it detects any alcohol on your breath.
Probation Terms
Along with probation, you‘ll face very strict terms – like alcohol monitoring, AA meetings, community service, and more. Violating any of the terms could mean going to jail.
Child Protective Services Involvement
If you‘re the child‘s parent or guardian, Child Protective Services will probably get involved to determine if you’re fit to keep custody. They could move to terminate your parental rights.
Criminal Record
A child endangerment DUI goes on your permanent criminal record as a felony in many states. This makes it extremely difficult to find employment, housing, loans, and more.As you can see, the consequences are no joke. That‘s why having an experienced DUI defense attorney is absolutely crucial if you’re facing these charges. They know how to navigate the complex legal system and build the strongest possible defense strategy.
Finding the Best Child Endangerment DUI Lawyer
Not all DUI lawyers are created equal. For such a serious charge, you need to find one with a proven track record in handling child endangerment cases specifically.
Look for Experience
An experienced lawyer will know all the ins and outs of these cases. They’ve been through it before and understand prosecution tactics. A fresh-out-of-law-school attorney could end up making rookie mistakes.
Check Their Success Rate
What’s their win rate like for getting charges reduced or dismissed? Don’t just take their word for it – read real client testimonials and case results.
Excellent Communicator
You’ll be working closely with this person, so you need someone who takes the time to explain everything clearly. They should be available and responsive when you have questions.
Affordable Fees
Legal fees can be crazy expensive, but there are options. Look for lawyers who offer payment plans, flat fees, or take payments through credit cards or loans.
Free Consultation
A reputable firm should offer a free initial consultation so you can get to know them before paying anything. Use this time to vet them thoroughly.The Spodek Law Group has over 50 years of combined experience in handling tough DUI cases like child endangerment. Their team of former prosecutors knows all the angles to craft an aggressive defense. Best of all, their fees are transparent and they offer flexible payment options. Call 212-210-1851 for a free case evaluation.
What to Do If You’re Facing Child Endangerment DUI Charges
Getting arrested for a child endangerment DUI can be terrifying – but keeping a cool head is crucial. Here are the steps to take:
- Don’t say anything to the police besides identifying yourself. Respectfully invoke your right to remain silent.
- Don’t consent to any searches or tests without a lawyer present.
- Once released, start looking for an experienced DUI defense attorney immediately. Time is of the essence.
- Gather any potential evidence or witness info that could help your case.
- Prepare for Child Protective Services to get involved if you’re the child’s parent/guardian.
- Follow all bail conditions and court orders to a T. Any violations could mean jail time.
The road ahead won’t be easy, but having the right lawyer in your corner can make a huge difference. They‘ll fight to protect your rights, reputation, and ability to be with your family.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Endangerment DUIs
Can I Get Charged If I Wasn’t Driving?
Yes, in some states you can face child endangerment charges even if you weren‘t the one driving. Just being intoxicated with a child in the vehicle is enough.
What If I Wasn’t Over the Legal Limit?
You can still get hit with these charges at lower BAC levels than a regular DUI, especially if the officer thinks you were visibly impaired.
Will I Automatically Lose Custody of My Kids?
Not necessarily, but Child Protective Services will get involved to evaluate your fitness as a parent. Prepare for that process.
Can I Get My License Back After a Conviction?
It’s possible, but difficult. You’ll likely need to go through substance abuse treatment, use an interlock device, and wait a set period of time first.
Do I Really Need an Attorney?
Absolutely. These cases are extremely complex with high stakes. A qualified DUI lawyer gives you the best shot at avoiding life-altering consequences.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Family
Getting slapped with child endangerment DUI charges can make you feel like the worst parent in the world. But try not to be too hard on yourself – we all make mistakes. The important thing now is getting proper legal representation.An experienced DUI defense lawyer who specializes in these cases will work tirelessly to protect your rights and your relationship with your children. They know how to poke holes in the prosecution‘s arguments and explore all avenues for dismissal or reduction of charges.