When you are accused of putting your child in harm’s way, you may feel stressed, overwhelmed, and scared about your future. If you are found guilty of child endangerment, you will face severe repercussions from criminal and family courts.
You have the right to a robust defense to protect yourself and your family. Retaining a qualified defense attorney with experience handling cases like yours is vital to building a strong case. Contact a skilled Upper Marlboro child endangerment lawyer at The Law Office of Vernon Brownlee when dealing with child neglect or endangerment accusations. We could provide you with the support and defense you need.
Child Endangerment Law in Maryland
Regardless of how individual law enforcement officers may refer to it, Maryland state law does not define child endangerment as a unique criminal offense. Instead, parents and guardians accused of putting their children in danger of suffering physical, emotional, or moral harm may be accused of one of a few criminal charges.
The most common allegations of child endangerment are prosecuted as child neglect. Under Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 3-602.1, child neglect is defined as an intentional failure to provide for a child’s physical or mental needs, creating a substantial risk of harm. It is worth emphasizing that the word “intentional” does not necessarily mean that the defendant intended to cause harm to the child; it means they intentionally took the action that put a child in harm’s way.
The inability to provide for a child’s physical or mental needs solely because of homelessness or a lack of financial resources does not violate this statute. A knowledgeable Upper Marlboro child endangerment attorney at our firm could further explain how courts typically prosecute neglect cases during a private meeting.
Consequences of a Child Neglect Conviction
As defined under Maryland Code, Crim. Law § 3-602.1, child neglect is a misdemeanor punishable by up to five years of imprisonment and a $5,000 fine. The court may also impose probation against someone convicted, which could negatively affect professional and personal prospects.
Perhaps most importantly, allegations of child neglect can lead to investigations by Child Protective Services, which can affect a defendant’s custody and visitation rights with their children. Support from a proactive child endangerment lawyer in Upper Marlboro is crucial to fighting against allegations and securing custody rights.
Speak With an Upper Marlboro Child Endangerment Attorney About Your Legal Options
An accusation of child endangerment can be life-altering if it results in a criminal conviction. You and your family’s lives could be drastically affected, as you may pay substantial fines, lose child custody, and face prison time.
Seek the support of a seasoned Upper Marlboro child endangerment lawyer. Vernon Brownlee has successfully fought and won cases similar to yours, so schedule an initial consultation by calling today.
(301) 502-4441
