Like in all other states, there are laws that help protect minors in California because they’re a vulnerable group. Adults need to remain vigilant in all settings that involve children in order to protect our youth’s present and create a better future for everyone.
Understanding the laws that protect our children is crucial, so knowing what is child endangerment and which actions constitute this crime in California can help you stay vigilant.
Are you in a situation where you may have to report a child endangerment case? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is Child Endangerment?
What is child endangerment? In short, this can be defined as any act or failure to act that puts a child’s health or safety at risk. This includes both physical and mental harm as well as neglect that may result in some form of damage to a child.
Child endangerment examples in California include:
- Leaving children unattended or uncared for
- Exposure to substance abuse
- Easy access to weapons
- Reckless driving while transporting children
- Physical abuse
- Domestic violence
- Psychological abuse
- Cyberbullying
- Sexual exploitation
Key Elements in a Child Endangerment Case
Child endangerment cases can be heartbreaking because the victims are often vulnerable and cannot defend themselves. That said, for there to be a case of child endangerment, a few elements need to exist. These include:
- Wilfully allowing or causing damage to the minor
- Risk to the health or safety of the child or children
Types of Child Endangerment Charges
When it comes to child endangerment in California, these cases are categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies.
- Misdemeanor Child Endangerment: These are less severe charges where there is no elevated risk of harm, but perpetrators can still be punished with up to a year in county jail.
- Felony Child Endangerment: Punishable for up to six years in state prison, a felony endangerment charge involves severe cases where the child is at heavy risk of bodily damage.
Variables that Impact the Case
When it comes to endangerment of a child, there are some issues that can impact the severity of the case. These include:
- The extent of the damage or trauma
- Whether there was intention, recklessness, or negligence involved
- If there is domestic violence, substance abuse, or another important context detail
Who Should Report Child Endangerment?
Certain professionals are required by law to report reckless endangerment of a child or children.
This includes education professionals, healthcare providers, mental health providers, counselors, school personnel, social workers, law enforcement personnel, and even daycare providers.
If you are in one of the groups listed above, it’s important to understand the state laws and reporting mechanisms you have at your disposal.
Seeking Justice for Child Endangerment Victims
Children are among the vulnerable groups that need to be protected by society as a whole. If you know of a child who is being exposed to dangerous situations and needs to be protected by the last, you should file a report and have the competent authorities address the matter.
Likewise, it’s also important to find an attorney who cares in order to get the best legal representation. At The John Christl Law, our legal team has the legal knowledge and compassion to help child endangerment victims get the compensation they need to move forward. Contact us Today!