Endangering the Welfare of a Child: A Tragic Incident

A 39-year-old mother has found herself in a devastating situation. She was charged with endangering the welfare of children after co-sleeping with her two-month-old daughter, while under the influence of marijuana. Unfortunately, a series of events led to the tragic death of the child.

The bed they slept in was eight inches higher on one side than the other. The mother allegedly slept on the higher side, with her child on the lower side. As a result, she rolled over onto the infant, who was later pronounced dead at the hospital. This heartbreaking incident has led to charges of criminal homicide and endangering the welfare of a child for the mother.

Penalties for Endangering the Life of a Child in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, endangering the life of a child can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. The severity of the charges can vary, as can the penalties that follow. A conviction will certainly hold jail time for those accused, making it essential for individuals to seek the help of an experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer.

Spodek Law Group: Your Best Defense Against Endangerment Charges

When you’re facing charges of endangering the welfare of a child, you need an experienced and dedicated criminal defense lawyer on your side. At Spodek Law Group, we understand the gravity of your situation and are here to help. Our skilled and compassionate attorney, Todd Spodek, has extensive experience in defending against charges of this nature. He will carefully examine the details of your case, review the evidence against you, and work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf.

Endangering the Welfare of Children Defined

According to 18 Pa.C.S. Section 4304, it is against the law for a parent, guardian, or anyone else supervising a child under the age of 18 to violate the duty of care, protection, or support owed to that child. People that employ or supervise an individual that violates the duty of care, protection, or support, may also be charged with endangering the welfare of children if the child becomes harmed.

The statute defines the person supervising a child as a person other than a parent or guardian, such as an educator or caregiver of the child. The statute also defines preventing or interfering with a report of suspected child abuse as endangering the welfare of children.

Understanding Endangering the Welfare of a Child in Pennsylvania

If you are charged with endangering the welfare of a child, it is crucial to understand the potential penalties. Endangering the welfare of a child is a serious offense in Pennsylvania that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. When charged as a misdemeanor, it still carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. However, certain circumstances can elevate the charge to a felony.

Misdemeanor Charges

A misdemeanor charge of endangering the welfare of a child can arise when an individual puts a child at risk of harm, whether through neglect, abuse, or exploitation. If convicted, the accused could face a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Felony Charges

Under Pennsylvania law, the charge can be elevated to a felony if the accused engaged in a course of conduct that put the child at risk or if the accused put the child at risk of death or serious bodily injury while committing the act. If the prosecution finds that both circumstances apply, the charge is upgraded to a felony of the second degree, carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of $25,000.

Get Legal Help From Spodek Law Group

If you are facing charges of endangering the welfare of a child in Pennsylvania, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who will fight for your rights. At Spodek Law Group, our attorney Todd Spodek has years of experience representing clients in criminal cases, including cases involving the endangerment of a child. We understand the seriousness of these charges and will work tirelessly to defend you and protect your future. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Need Help Defending Against Endangering the Welfare of Children Charges in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania considers endangering the welfare of children a serious offense. If you’ve been charged with this crime, you’ll need the help of a highly experienced and skillful criminal defense lawyer who will fiercely advocate for your rights. Our law firm, Spodek Law Group, is here to help you. Our Allentown criminal defense attorney, Todd Spodek, has the necessary knowledge and experience to challenge the prosecution’s arguments and build a strong defense, giving you the best possible chance of achieving a positive outcome. Don’t let these charges ruin your life.

Life Settlement Fraud

Life settlement fraud is another serious offense that is classified as either a class A misdemeanor or a class E felony, depending on the severity of the fraudulent life settlement act. A person is guilty of life settlement fraud when he or she commits a fraudulent life settlement act by wrongfully taking, obtaining, or withholding property.