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Intent Doesn’t Matter When Children Are Injured by Domestic Violence

Posted by Joseph D. Lento | Jun 01, 2024 | 0 Comments

A child was inadvertently injured during a high-profile domestic violence incident involving a former star of the Netflix series “Selling Sunset.” Christian Dumontet, husband of celebrity realtor Christine Quinn, was arrested outside the couple's Hollywood home after allegedly throwing a bag with a glass bottle in it at Christine. Dumontet missed his wife but struck their 2-year-old son instead. The boy was treated at the scene by paramedics, and Dumontet is now being held on $30,000 bail. 

It may have been an accident, but intent doesn't matter when it comes to domestic violence charges — especially when a child is injured as part of the incident. If you've been accused of domestic violence in the state of Pennsylvania, the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team is ready to help. Call us today at 888.535.3686 or contact us online to learn what legal options you have available. 

Domestic Violence Charges in Pennsylvania 

In the state of Pennsylvania, a domestic violence incident such as Dumontent's could carry charges of Endangering the Welfare of Children. This is a first-degree misdemeanor charge that carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a fine of $10,000. This can escalate to a third-degree felony if it is determined to be part of a pattern of behavior. It can also cost you custody of your child or children. 

This is in addition to other charges associated with the initial domestic violence incident, which can range from third-degree misdemeanors (with a $2,500 maximum fine and 1-year maximum jail sentence) to first-degree felonies that carry a maximum fine of $25,000 and a max sentence of 20 years in prison. 

The range of sentencing in domestic violence cases in Pennsylvania is so wide because the charges themselves vary for offenses from harassment all the way up to murder. In Dumontent's case, had the incident happened in Pennsylvania rather than California, he could have been charged with either simple assault (a second-degree misdemeanor with a 2-year max sentence) or aggravated assault (a second-degree felony with a 10-year max sentence). The determination would depend on multiple factors, including the extent of injuries caused to his son. However, a good legal defense could also help ensure that Dumontent faces fewer charges. 

Facing Domestic Violence in Pennsylvania? The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team Can Help. 

With the severe penalties possible in domestic violence cases in Pennsylvania, it's imperative to find the right defense team for your case. It could make all the difference in maintaining your reputation, your freedom, or even the custody of your children. 

The LFF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team can help you navigate all of your legal options in a domestic violence case, even one involving possible charges of child endangerment. Call us now at 888.535.3686 or contact us online to find out how we can help. 

About the Author

Joseph D. Lento

"I pride myself on having heart and driving hard to get results!" Attorney Joseph D. Lento passionately fights for the futures of his clients in criminal courtrooms in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania as well as in New Jersey and nationwide. He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead prioritizes his clients' needs and well-being. With unparalleled experience occupying several roles in the criminal justice system outside of being an attorney, Joseph D. Lento can give you valuable behind-the-scenes insight as to what is happening during all phases of the legal process. Joseph D. Lento is licensed in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, and is admitted pro hac vice as needed nationwide. In the courtroom and in life, attorney Joseph D. Lento stands up when the bell rings!

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The LLF Law Firm Team has decades of experience successfully resolving clients' criminal charges in Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania counties. If you are having any uncertainties about what the future may hold for you or a loved one, contact the LLF Law Firm today! Our Criminal Defense Team will go above and beyond the needs of any client, and will fight until the final bell rings.

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