If you have been charged with reckless endangerment in Berks County, PA, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight for you. The penalties for this offense can be substantial and could place your legal rights in great jeopardy. Because it is considered a "violent crime," it will stay on your record and you could lose certain civil rights.
To defend your case and protect your constitutional rights, you need an experienced Berks County Reckless Endangerment attorney to ensure that your legal rights are protected. A strong defense is the best way to protect your freedom.
Reckless Endangerment Charges in Berks County, PA
Reckless endangerment is an offense codified at Pen. Consolidated Statutes Title 18 § 2705. The offense occurs when a person engages in conduct or behavior that places another person in serious danger of sustaining death or bodily injury.
This definition is very broad and can encompass many different types of "behaviors" or acts that could lead to a criminal charge. Some of these include, but are not limited to:
- discharging a firearm in public
- throwing objects at passing vehicles (i.e. rocks, glass bottles, filled balloons)
- operating a motor vehicle at excessively high speeds
This is but a small sample of the types of acts that could lead to a criminal charge of reckless endangerment.
Does Intent Matter?
Unlike with many other offenses, the Pennsylvania prosecutor does not have to prove that the defendant intended to cause harm or injury to another person. It is sufficient to show that the offender acted carelessly or recklessly and that those actions could have caused harm to another person.
Penalties for Reckless Endangerment in Pennsylvania
In most people's case, a charge of reckless endangerment in Pennsylvania is a second-degree misdemeanor. While not as serious as a felony-level charge, the offense still carries significant penalties. These penalties include the following:
- up to a maximum of 2 years in jail,
- a maximum fine of up to $5,000, or
- both
As a "violent crime" under Pennsylvania law, this offense can remain on your record, and may not be subject to expungement from your criminal record. Also, you may lose your second amendment right to own a firearm because of this designation.
Possible Defenses
With the help of a skilled Pennsylvania reckless endangerment attorney at your side, you can present a defense uniquely tailored to your situation. Examples of possible defenses include, but are not limited to:
- Filing a suppression motion to keep out illegally obtained evidence
- Showing that your conduct was not reckless
- Your actions were not a serious threat to the safety of others
Consult an Experienced Berks County Reckless Endangerment Attorney
Never assume you will be found guilty just because you are charged with reckless endangerment. Every case is different, and every case deserves to be defended by a skilled lawyer. The LLF Law Firm, brings experience and determination to the table for you.
An experienced Berks County Reckless Endangerment Attorney can protect your constitutional rights. Call (888) 535-3686 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation of your case.
