CHILD ENDANGERMENT Child endangerment is prohibited by California Penal Code section 273a.  Specifically, this law prohibits a person from willfully causing or allowing any child to suffer unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering.  This section also prohibits a person who has care or custody of a child from willfully causing or allowing that child to be injured or placed in a situation where that child’s health is endangered.  If either of these situations occurs in circumstances likely to produce great bodily harm or death, then the violation can be charged as a felony.  Otherwise, it is charged as a misdemeanor. Child endangerment is often suspected when a child is found without adult supervision, or has physical injuries found on their bodies.  Medical personnel and teachers are often the individuals who report these situations to law enforcement.  In fact, both medical personnel and teachers are required by law to report any situations where they suspect child endangerment is occurring. Child endangerment charges can be brought alone or in conjunction with other offenses.  For example, the District Attorney’s Office might charge child endangerment if the defendant is suspected of: committing domestic violence in front of a child driving under the influence with a child passenger being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol in the presence of a child Penalties for violating this law include jail and/or fines.  Other penalties that are specific to this charge include: 4 years probation restraining order protecting the victim completion of a year-long child abuser’s treatment program Contact Fred Thiagarajah for a free consultation if you've been arrested for child endangerment. © 2006 Fredthia.com, Criminal Defense Attorney The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice.   You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.