If law enforcement accuses you of child endangerment, the weight of that moment can be overwhelming. Daily life is interrupted, and questions about work, family, and reputation can arise all at once. In these circumstances, clear legal guidance is not just useful—it is necessary.
A Greenville child endangerment lawyer at Ellis Hinton, LLC can review the charges, explain the laws involved, and recommend a strategic course of action. Private counsel can also gather key evidence, preserve records, and meet court deadlines. If you are unsure how to respond to an accusation, an experienced defense attorney can step in to guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
In South Carolina, child endangerment is not a single, simple charge; it is covered by two different statutes. The first is the state’s traffic code. Under South Carolina Code § 56-5-2947, a driver accused of driving under the influence (DUI) with a passenger under 16 can face an added endangerment charge. In addition to those for the DUI, penalties can include added fines, license suspension, or jail time, depending on the case.
The second statute is part of the South Carolina Children’s Code. Labeled unlawful conduct toward a child, S.C. Code § 63-5-70 covers a wide range of acts by a parent or caregiver that place a child at risk or cause injury. This offense is a felony and carries significant potential punishment.
Understanding which statute applies is critical. An attorney can evaluate issues such as:
A Greenville defense attorney experienced in child neglect cases can examine the facts to determine if the elements of the alleged offense have been met.
Each allegation is different, and defense preparation depends on careful fact-finding. A lawyer can obtain recordings, dashcam footage, school or medical records, and digital data from the incident. In DUI-related cases, expert testimony on toxicology or accident reconstruction may also be useful.
The legal approach differs depending on the circumstances. For a traffic offense, the prosecution must prove both the DUI and the presence of a minor in the vehicle. For unlawful conduct, the state must show responsibility for the child and an unreasonable risk or injury. Defense counsel can challenge intent, dispute whether risk was present, or demonstrate corrective measures taken by the family.
In a case involving unlawful conduct toward a child, a Greenville lawyer can also coordinate with DSS hearings to ensure criminal and family issues are addressed together. Private representation ensures communication is clear, thoroughly prepares for hearings, and makes decisions with full knowledge of the options.
If you are facing child endangerment charges, you deserve calm advice and a clear explanation of your options. Speaking with a Greenville child endangerment lawyer at Ellis Hinton, LLC can help you understand the statutes, penalties, and defenses available for your case.
Call us for a consultation if you need help understanding your next steps. Our lawyers, based in Greenville, servicing South Carolina and beyond, can give you the perspective you need to take control of the situation and start building a plan for the future.
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