Westchester County Endangering the Welfare of a Child Lawyers

Fighting for Individuals Accused of Harming a Child

If you have been charged with endangering the welfare of a child in Westchester County, contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The State does not take these cases lightly. Not only will you go through the criminal justice system, but you may also be investigated by a CPS social worker. Both processes can be challenging to navigate, especially when dealing with the emotional stresses of being accused of harming a child. A lawyer can provide the guidance you need at each stage, making your case easier to handle.

At Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP, our endangering the welfare of a child attorneys in Westchester County have over 100 years of combined experience. With a couple of team members having served as former Assistant District Attorneys, we are well-versed in the legal nuances of the legal system. Additionally, our skilled lawyers have defended parents at CPS hearings, protecting their rights and the family's best interests. Whatever course your case may take, our team is prepared to help you through it.

Schedule a consultation with an endangering the welfare of a child lawyer in Westchester County consultation by calling (914) 840-5104 or submitting an online contact form today.

What Is Considered Endangering the Welfare of a Child in New York?

New York Penal Law § 260.10 establishes the crime of endangering the welfare of a child. The statute creates two classes of child endangerment. First, a person can be charged with the offense if they knowingly do something that could cause physical or mental injury to or damage the moral welfare of a person under 17 years of age. Someone could also face charges if they allow a child under 18 years of age to engage in an act that would place them at substantial risk of harm to life or health.

Second, charges can arise if a parent, guardian, or other adult does not show reasonable diligence in preventing the child from becoming abused or neglected or suffering other adverse consequences.

The law states that a person may be guilty of the offense if their negligence causes the child to become:

• An abused child: A parent or guardian inflicts physical injury on a child under 18 years of age, which could result in death, disfigurement, long-term physical or emotional impairment, or protracted loss of the functioning of a bodily organ. A child may also be considered abused if a parent or guardian commits a crime against the child or allows the child to engage in prostitution or other sexual acts;
• A neglected child: A parent or guardian does not provide the minimum standard of care for a child under 18 years of age. As a result, the child’s physical, emotional, or mental state has or may become impaired;
• A juvenile delinquent: A child under 18 years of age who engages in conduct that would be considered a crime or violation if committed by an adult. However, the child is not criminally responsible because of their very young age; or
• A person in need of supervision: A child under 18 years of age who does not go to school as required, is constantly disobedient, engages in prostitution, or has been sexually exploited.

What Happens If You’re Charged with the Offense?

As with any other crime, if you’re accused of endangering the welfare of a child in Westchester County, you must go through the justice system to resolve your case. You’ll have to appear in court at an arraignment and plead guilty or not guilty. A not guilty plea will cause your case to move to trial, where your defense attorney and the prosecutor will present arguments before a judge or jury. You will be sentenced if the trier of facts returns a guilty verdict.

In addition to the criminal process, a CPS investigation may also result from the arrest. A CPS social worker will investigate to determine whether credible evidence supports the allegations against you. You will be set for a hearing before the Office of Children and Family Services to present your case.

At Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP, our endangering the welfare of a child attorneys in Westchester County fight vigorously for our clients. Skilled negotiators and litigators, we seek favorable outcomes outside and inside of the courtroom. We are also well-equipped to represent parents during CPS investigations and hearings.

What Are the Penalties for Endangering the Welfare of a Child?

Endangering the welfare of a child is a Class A misdemeanor.

The potential conviction penalties include the following:

• Incarceration for up to 364 days and/or
• A fine not to exceed $1,000.

Discuss Your Case with Our Firm

Our Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP team understands the law inside and out. We are a premier criminal defense firm that provides high-quality legal representation for our clients. Understanding the difficulties surrounding an endangering the welfare of a child charge, we take the time to develop legal strategies tailored to our clients’ needs.

To speak with one of our attorneys, please contact us at (914) 840-5104.