What is Reckless Endangerment?
Reckless endangerment is defined as any conduct that places another person in imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death. While a conviction comes with potential jail time, fines, and a criminal record, you may also experience damage to your reputation. At Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, we know the impact that reckless endangerment can have on the accused and their loved ones. If you have been accused of reckless endangerment, now is the time to speak with our Nashville violent crime attorneys.
Penalties for Reckless Endangerment
Reckless endangerment is often charged as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months, 29 days in prison and a $2,500 fine. Engaging in any conduct that places other lives in danger is considered reckless endangerment. For example, you could be charged with reckless endangerment as a passenger if you let someone else drive, knowing that they are intoxicated. This would apply if the driver’s blood alcohol level were elevated to the point that it placed others in danger of serious bodily injury or death.
While reckless endangerment is generally charged as a misdemeanor, it can be enhanced to a felony given the following circumstances:
Reckless Endangerment with a Deadly Weapon
If you committed reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon, you could be charged with a Class E felony. If found guilty, you may be sentenced to anywhere between one and six years in prison and fined as much as $6,000.
Discharging a Firearm Into a House When People Are Inside
If you have been charged with firing a gun into a house when people are inside, this is a Class C felony. If found guilty, you may be sentenced to anywhere from three to fifteen years in state prison and fined up to $10,000.
Discharging a Firearm Into a House When No One Is Inside
If you have fired a gun into a home but no one is inside, you will be charged with a Class D felony. A guilty verdict will result in two to 12 years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines.
Discharging a Firearm From Within a Vehicle
Discharging a firearm from within a vehicle is a Class C felony. Under TN Code §39-13-103 (5), any of the above-listed penalties may also be subject to $50 assessment fees by the court.
The Importance of Hiring an Attorney Cannot Be Underestimated
Reckless endangerment charges can have significant impacts on your freedom and your future ability to rent an apartment, see your kids, or find a job. If you are facing allegations of reckless endangerment, you will want an experienced criminal defense attorney who can build a case that reduces or eliminates your criminal liability. The Nashville violent crime lawyers at Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, are equipped to do just that. Our team of professionals understands the consequences that you are up against and is prepared to find any and all evidence to help reduce your current charges.
Contact Our Nashville Violent Crime Lawyers Today
Reckless endangerment charges can have serious consequences, ruining your reputation and future prospects. At Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, our Nashville violent crime attorneys make it our mission to help individuals who face having their freedom stripped away from them. If you or someone you know is under investigation for reckless endangerment, our legal team would like to hear from you. To arrange your free consultation with an attorney, contact us online or by phone at (615) 846-9889 today.