DUI and Child Endangerment

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is illegal in many states. When this occurs with a child in the vehicle, the situation escalates from a misdemeanor to a felony. This includes an additional charge of child endangerment, which has its own severe consequences. If you find yourself facing these charges, it’s crucial to seek advice from a skilled and assertive Greensburg criminal attorney.

Consequences of DUI With Child Endangerment Charges

A DUI conviction can have significant repercussions, especially for professionals. It might lead to disciplinary actions, jeopardize your professional licenses, or even result in job loss. Losing your license due to a DUI-related suspension can prevent you from commuting to work, and many employers have strict policies against DUI offenses. The severity of the situation increases when child endangerment charges are involved, particularly if your profession involves working with children. In some cases, it may permanently disqualify you from certain career paths. A few examples include:

• Sports coaches
• Daycare workers
• Bus drivers
• Teachers

If the child involved is your own, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Office of Children, Youth, and Families might launch an investigation. This could lead to a prolonged custody battle for your child and their siblings.

Penalties for DUI With Child Endangerment

Pennsylvania enforces stringent penalties for DUI with child endangerment. First-time offenders may be sentenced to 100 hours of community service and fined $1,000 or more. For second-time offenses, mandatory jail time ranges from one to six months, along with fines of at least $2,500. For third or subsequent convictions, jail terms can range from six months to two years.

Standard DUI penalties also apply, which may include the installation of an ignition interlock device. This requires you to blow into the device each time you start your vehicle. Other penalties can include substantial fines, potential jail time, loss of work hours, and possibly a complete suspension of your license, leaving you dependent on others for transportation.

Navigating the complexities of Pennsylvania’s DUI laws and court system can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Hiring a knowledgeable Greensburg DUI attorney can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Attempting to represent yourself often results in harsher penalties. Your Greensburg criminal attorney will need all the facts to build a strong defense, so be open and provide comprehensive details.

If you’re facing charges of DUI and child endangerment, consider reaching out to the Logue Law Group. They offer services in Greensburg, as well as West Virginia and Ohio. Contact them today for a free initial consultation with a skilled Greensburg DUI lawyer at 844.PITT.DUI or (844) 748-8384. You can also contact them through their website.

Time is critical. The sooner you secure legal representation, the better your chances of achieving the positive outcome you desire. Don’t wait—act now!