Parents, guardians, and caretakers must do their best to protect children from harm. Allegations that you have harmed a child or allowed them to be in a dangerous situation can lead to legal consequences. Regardless of the circumstances, you need representation from an attorney to resolve the situation and avoid severe penalties.

A Bridgeport child abuse lawyer can help defend you, whether your charges allege intentional harm or endangerment. Ruane Attorneys could explain why the arrest occurred and what penalties you face. Our firm could then work to craft a defense tailored to the situation.

Intentional Child Abuse is a Criminal Offense

Parents and caretakers of children have an obligation to take every possible step to protect kids from harm. This includes refraining from causing intentional injuries to children through abuse. However, the law also allows for criminal prosecution for injuries that result from accidents. State law allows police officers to make arrests after allegedly dangerous situations, even if the child does not suffer harm.

Under Connecticut General Statute § 53-21, it is against the law to willfully or unlawfully place a child in a position where their well-being is in danger. Under this statute, a conviction is a class C felony with a potential prison sentence of up to five years. A Bridgeport child abuse attorney could further explain the relevant state laws and potential penalties that may follow from a conviction. The sooner a defendant contacts legal counsel, the sooner they can begin gathering evidence to contest the child abuse charges.

Child Abuse Allegations Involving Unintentional Conduct

Child endangerment cases are often complex and require police officers, prosecutors, and juries to use their sense of judgment. Unlike other criminal allegations, there is no clear definition of what it means to place another person in harm’s way. Instead, the law uses the concept of recklessness to place criminal liability on a person’s interaction with a child.

In general, a person is reckless when they act without regard for the well-being of themselves or others. In some situations, this may involve violating a separate law that exists to protect the general public. For instance, state law prohibits many activities that pose a danger to the health of children. One example is Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53-21a, which says that it is a misdemeanor to leave a child unattended in a vehicle or public place. A lawyer at our Bridgeport office could provide more information about recklessness and how it may result in criminal prosecution for child abuse.

Reach Out to a Bridgeport Child Abuse Attorney Today

Charges that allege child endangerment or abuse can arise out of many situations. These allegations can sometimes accompany other criminal charges like drunk driving or drug possession. Police can also make an arrest that alleges a sole count of child abuse.

It is critical to fight back against these charges at every opportunity. A Bridgeport child abuse lawyer at Ruane Attorneys can help you understand the laws that apply to your case and represent your interests during every court session. We can contest the idea that you allowed a child to be in a dangerous situation and create reasonable doubt concerning the allegations in the case. Contact our firm today to discuss your situation in a consultation.