Recklessly Endangering Another Person

If you’ve been arrested for recklessly endangering another person, the consequences can be severe. Jail time of up to two years may await you, making it crucial to promptly secure the services of a reputable Greensburg criminal lawyer. With their dedication, creativity, and aggressiveness, they can help reduce the harsh penalties you face and guide you through this challenging situation.

Things to Know About Recklessly Endangering Another Individual

Here are some important things to understand about recklessly endangering another individual in Pennsylvania:

1. Proof of Conduct: The prosecution must prove that your conduct exposed someone else to a situation that could have resulted in serious injuries or death.
2. Second-degree Misdemeanor: Reckless endangerment is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor.
3. REAP Concept: A key aspect of reckless endangerment charges is the concept of “REAP” – Recklessly Endangering Another Person. It centers around whether your actions were genuinely reckless and dangerous. It’s possible that the police arrested you believing your actions were reckless, but this might not be the case in reality. REAP charges often accompany other charges.

What Do I Do if I Get Charged With This Offense?

If you find yourself facing this offense, here’s what you should do:

1. Factors Influencing Arrest: The decision to arrest you is influenced by various factors. For example, if illegal substances are discovered in your car or if alcohol is detected on your breath after an accident, the police may consider your actions as reckless.
2. Associated Crimes: Reckless endangerment is sometimes coupled with the crime of stalking. If you are convicted of REAP and then subsequently accused of stalking, the offense can escalate to a felony instead of a misdemeanor.
3. Impact Over Intention: Remember, the impact of your actions may outweigh their intention. For instance, dangerously operating a power tool near a child while under the influence, resulting in injury, might lead to a charge of reckless endangerment. On the other hand, if no harm occurred, it might be deemed simple negligence.
4. Interacting with Law Enforcement: When interacting with law enforcement or prosecutors, refrain from speaking without your Greensburg DUI lawyer present. They may misinterpret your words and use them against you. Stay composed, patient, and respectful. If questioned, politely assert your right to have a Greensburg criminal lawyer with you before providing any answers

Reckless Endangerment Defenses

Some common defenses to these charges include:

• Negligence Instead of Recklessness: One of the most common defenses to these charges is asserting that the accused was not reckless but rather negligent. This defense strategy has proven successful in numerous cases due to the broad applicability of the charge.
• Self-defense: Claiming that the actions were taken in defense of oneself or others.
• Mistaken Identity: Arguing that the accused was not the person who committed the reckless act.
• Unintentional Actions: Stating that the actions were unintentional and accidental.
• Lack of Evidence: Disputing the existence of sufficient evidence to prove recklessness.
• No Serious Bodily Injury: Arguing that there was no threat of serious bodily injury or death resulting from the accused’s actions.

The specific defenses a Greensburg criminal attorney can employ will depend on the unique circumstances of each case.

How Can a Lawyer Assist You?

Your Greensburg DUI attorney will meticulously review the case, examining the charges brought against you and the events leading up to your arrest. They will:

• Identify favorable factors and work to challenge the evidence presented against you
• Provide a comprehensive explanation of the legal terms and conditions involved, addressing any questions or concerns you may have
• Prepare a robust defense on your behalf, ensuring the protection of your rights

Therefore, if you or a loved one is facing charges of this nature, it is crucial to promptly seek the assistance of a Greensburg criminal lawyer. Get in touch with us today at Logue Law Group by calling 844.PITT.DUI or contacting us online. Our legal team is available to support you at any hour, day or night.