Columbia Risk of Injury to a Minor Penalties

Whenever someone commits a risk of injury to a minor or endangers a child’s well-being, they could be facing imprisonment. In Columbia, prosecutors work hard to make sure those who harm children are convicted. Columbia risk of injury to a minor penalties vary on the charge the person received. If you have been charged with risking an injury to a minor, it may be in your best interests to seek the services of a dedicated defense lawyer.

Misdemeanor and Felony Charges

Cruelty to a child is a misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 30 days in jail. Unlawful conduct towards a child is a felony with a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in jail. The harshest penalty is going to come to those who commit a homicide by child abuse, which is also a felony.

Cruelty to children occurs when someone ill-treats a child and deprives them of sustenance, shelter, or inflicts unnecessary pain or suffering. Unlawful conduct is when an individual creates an unreasonable risk of harm affecting the child’s life. This can include the child’s physical or mental health. Due to the seriousness of Columbia risk of injury to a minor penalties, it is important to contact a well-trained lawyer immediately when an individual is charged.

Criminal and Family Court

Cases involving an injury risk to a minor can be tried in both criminal and family court. A family court case is where the Department of Social Services (DSS) becomes involved. The DSS Case Worker assesses whether emergency protective custody (EPC) is necessary and what is in the best interest of the child. The criminal case is heard in General Sessions Court or in Magistrate’s Court, depending on whether the case involves cruelty to children or unlawful conduct towards a child.

Nearly all these cases require a DSS caseworker to do an investigation. Risking an injury to a minor case also have an agent caseworker investigating in order to present the facts of the case to determine the safety, welfare, and best interest of the child. The Court of General Sessions or the Magistrate’s Court hears the criminal charges and the Family Court hears any of the child custody or issues relating to the child’s safety and well-being.

Penalties for Sexual Misconduct with a Minor in Columbia

There is a significant difference between the risk of injury cases that may or may not involve sexual contact or conduct. There are specific crimes of criminal sexual conduct with a minor or criminal solicitation of a minor. The charges have separate penalties and are incredibly serious. They are different than the basic risk of injury cases of cruelty to children or unlawful conduct towards a child. The criminal sexual conduct with a minor or criminal solicitation of a minor case has possible collateral consequences such as sex offender registry, GPS monitoring, and being known as a sexual predator.

If you are facing Columbia risk of injury to a minor penalties, you should contact a dedicated defense attorney right away. A lawyer could advocate on your behalf and ensure that your rights are being protected.