What You Need To Know About The Law of Child Endangerment in California PC 273(a)
California Penal Code Section 273(a) defines Child Endangerment as willfully placing a child in an unsafe situation. Under the law, a child is defined as anyone under the age of 18. The main factors that the prosecution must provide to successfully convict on a charge of child endangerment include:
(1) The accused intentionally caused a child to be in an unsafe situation;
(2) This situation might have caused the child to sustain injuries or affect their health;
(3) The accused made the child victim suffer (psychologically or physically)
It should be noted that a child endangerment charge can be filed as either a felony or misdemeanor. This type of crime is referred to as a “wobbler” offense. Whether the case will be filed as a felony or misdemeanor charges will depend on the surrounding facts and circumstances of the case and whether the suspect has a lawyer to advocate on their behalf prior to the formal filing of charges. You can potentially serve a jail sentence of up to one year in county jail or up to six years in state prison. A felony child endangerment conviction may also result in a strike pursuant to California’s Three Strike law.
Child Endangerment is a serious charge that calls for the skill and expertise of a criminal defense attorney. At Wallin & Klarich, our attorneys have been in practice for over 40 years and can help you achieve the best possible outcome. Call us today at 888-749-0034. With offices in San Bernardino, Riverside, Los Angeles, Ventura, San Diego, and Orange Counties, we will be there for you when you call.
AUTHOR: Paul Wallin
Paul Wallin is one of the most highly respected attorneys in Southern California. His vast experience, zealous advocacy for his clients and extensive knowledge of many areas of the law make Mr. Wallin a premiere Southern California attorney.
Mr. Wallin founded Wallin & Klarich in 1981. As the senior partner of Wallin & Klarich, Mr. Wallin has been successfully representing clients for more than 30 years. Clients come to him for help in matters involving assault and battery, drug crimes, juvenile crimes, theft, manslaughter, sex offenses, murder, violent crimes, misdemeanors and felonies. Mr. Wallin also helps clients with family law matters such as divorce and child custody.
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