Being accused of endangering a minor is one of the most serious charges a parent or caregiver can face. Prosecutors often treat these cases as if guilt is automatic, but the truth is that child endangerment laws are broad and sometimes unfairly applied. You may have simply made a mistake, been caught in a misunderstanding, or found yourself accused after a stressful situation that spiraled out of control.
At Erkan & Sullivan, P.C., our criminal defense attorneys understand how devastating these accusations can be to your life, your family, and your reputation. With over forty years of combined experience in criminal law, we know what it takes to fight back against aggressive prosecutors. When you choose a Lowell child endangerment lawyer from our firm, you gain legal counsel who will not back down until every option to protect your future has been explored.
Massachusetts General Laws Ch. 90 § 24V criminalizes operating a motor vehicle under the influence (OUI) with a child under 14 in the car, while other statutes make it a crime to place a child at risk through neglect, reckless behavior, or exposure to drugs and violence. These charges can be combined with related offenses such as OUI, assault, or drug possession, making the penalties even harsher.
The punishment for child endangerment often includes mandatory minimum sentences, fines of up to $5,000, probation terms, and potential loss of custody rights. A conviction can affect you for life, appearing in background checks, professional licensing reviews, and even immigration proceedings. For non-citizens, the immigration consequences can be catastrophic, as child endangerment may be treated as a removable offense. A Lowell attorney from our firm can help prevent these harsh penalties for endangering a minor.
Child endangerment charges are particularly damaging because jurors and judges tend to react emotionally. Prosecutors know this and may use it to push for maximum punishment. Our lawyers will approach your case strategically and challenge the evidence to expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s story.
Was the incident truly intentional, or was it an accident being exaggerated into a crime? Is the government mischaracterizing lawful parental discipline as a criminal act? Did police or child services overstep their authority during the investigation? Was evidence gathered unlawfully? We examine every angle because we know your entire future depends on the outcome.
Our lawyers also understand the importance of discretion in Lowell child endangerment cases. These accusations can destroy careers and reputations even without a conviction. We work aggressively not only to fight the charges but also to protect your name, family relationships, and standing in the community.
The state views child endangerment cases as profitable, with prosecutors pushing for convictions that carry heavy financial penalties and strict probation terms. In addition, the Department of Children and Families may get involved, threatening your parental rights and adding more stress to an already overwhelming situation.
The penalties for endangering a child are simply too severe to leave your future to chance, which is why you should contact an attorney in Lowell immediately. Jail sentences, lifelong criminal records, and the possibility of losing custody of your children are all possible. Our lawyers know what is at stake, and we will fight with everything we have to keep you from facing the harshest consequences.
If you are facing charges for endangering a minor, do not wait for prosecutors to decide your future. You need an experienced legal team that is strategic, relentless, and fully committed to your defense. Our attorneys have the experience and courtroom skill to give you the strongest possible defense.
Call a Lowell child endangerment lawyer at Erkan & Sullivan, P.C. today and put our defense team to work for you.
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