Reckless endangerment is an offense in Douglas County, Colorado that involves conduct creating a substantial risk of injury to another person. Driving your car inappropriately with children in the back or going to work at a construction site while drunk can result in damaging criminal charges. Contact an experienced reckless endangerment lawyer if you’re facing accusations or charges for putting others in harm’s way.
Douglas County’s Reckless Endangerment Law
C.R.S. 18-3-208 defines the circumstances of reckless endangerment in Castle Rock, Parker, and Highlands Ranch. Someone commits reckless endangerment in Colorado when they:
- engage in conduct,
- that creates a substantial risk,
- of serious bodily injury to another
There are many daily activities and actions that could result in serious bodily injury to another person. Anytime you drive distracted or under the influence, there’s a risk you could significantly injure someone. Additionally, many people are employed in positions where their conduct could result in someone being hurt if they’re not careful and alert. Operating machinery, practicing in healthcare, and positions responsible for youth all carry a particular responsibility for not acting recklessly on the job.
Can You Go to Jail for Reckless Endangerment in Colorado?
Conviction of reckless endangerment in Castle Rock is a class 2 misdemeanor. This can result in penalties of:
- up to 120 days in county jail,
- fines of up to $750,
- probation,
- counseling,
- community service
A criminal record can be the most damaging aspect of a reckless endangerment conviction for some. If you lose your job because of the criminal conduct and seek other employment, this offense will show up on certain background checks. You may be turned away for another applicant with a clean record and lose thousands of dollars of potential income.
Douglas County Criminal Defense Lawyers
A charge of reckless endangerment in Lone Tree, Parker, or Castle Rock should be handled with expert representation from a reckless endangerment lawyer. One way we fight reckless endangerment charges is to break down its definition and argue your conduct doesn’t match the specific elements. Perhaps the situation was accidental or there wasn’t a risk of serious bodily injury to anyone. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free initial consultation.
We will thoroughly analyze your reckless endangerment case, as well as suggest next steps. Our particularly skilled criminal defense lawyers offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans, making strategic representation a reality for those facing accusations.
Don’t discuss reckless endangerment allegations with police – talk to us. 303-265-1950
Photo by Camilo Jimenez