Whenever there is a Norwalk arrest for Risk of Injury / Child Endangerment, DCF will get involved. DCF operates separately from the criminal court. However, what is said to DCF investigators, and the outcomes of a DCF investigation can be used against you by the criminal court. Keep reading to learn about the process, and follow this link for specifics on fighting a Connecticut DCF investigation.
Risk of injury is a serious crime under the Connecticut Penal Code. As defined by Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) § 53-21, risk of injury to a minor can occur in a number of ways. Not often seen is § 53-21(a)(3), which in layman’s terms involves selling a child. More commonly seen is § 53-21(a)(2), having contact with the intimate parts of a minor or causing them to have contact with your intimate parts. Most commonly seen is § 53-21(a)(1), which covers any willful or unlawful action that causes or permits a child to be placed in a situation where their safety, health, or morals are likely to be endangered or impaired.
It’s always a felony. In addition to jail time, fines, and probation, those convicted will have a felony record that will follow them for years to come. This record can impede your ability to retain housing, work, and education.
Most risk of injury cases are Class C felonies, carrying up to 10 years in jail and a $10,000 fine. In certain circumstances, it may be charged as a Class B felony. The penalties in this situation doubles.
Almost always in a Risk of Injury arrest. A judge is always going to want to know the results of your DCF investigation following a Connecticut Risk of Injury CGS 53-21 arrest. A DCF case does not end with jail time, it ends with substantiation or dismissal of allegations. When allegations are substantiated, you may face placement on the DCF Central Registry. A skilled Norwalk defense attorney could help you navigate not only the criminal court but the DCF investigation to make sure you have a solid defense.
A dedicated Norwalk risk of injury lawyer can begin working immediately to analyze your case, advocate for your rights, and build a strong defense. Depending on the specifics of your case, a lawyer can argue that the conduct did not rise to the level of risk of injury. They can also argue for alternative penalties wherever possible.
If you’re being accused of risk of injury to a minor, hiring an attorney can be the first step to protecting you and your family. A skilled Norwalk risk of injury to a minor lawyer can be instrumental in building a defense and getting a positive outcome. Click here to see our hundreds of certified reviews on Avvo.com. To learn more, contact the lawyers at Mark Sherman Law today.
