The Crime

Reckless Endangerment is a serious offense that can damage your record and your reputation. In Tennessee, a person may be convicted of the crime of Reckless Endangerment if the state prosecutor proves beyond a reasonable doubt that the person:

1. Recklessly engages in conduct;
2. That places or may place another person;
3. In imminent danger of death;
4. Or serious bodily injury.

The term reckless, as it is used here, means that a person was aware of, but consciously disregarded, a substantial and unjustifiable risk that his conduct would place another person in imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury. If you have been charged with Reckless Endangerment, you should seek help from the Knoxville criminal defense attorneys at the Oberman & Rice Law Firm.

[Source: Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-103]

The Penalties

Reckless Endangerment is often a Misdemeanor offense. However, if committed with a deadly weapon, Reckless Endangerment becomes a Felony Offense. Misdemeanor Reckless Endangerment is a Class A Misdemeanor and can result in some or all of the following penalties:

1. A sentence of up to 11 months, 29 days in prison;
2. A probationary period;
3. A fine of up to $2,500;
4. Court costs;
5. Points on your Tennessee driving history if committed with a motor vehicle.

[Source: Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-103]

Why Hire An Attorney Immediately?

It is important to act quickly in order to gather and preserve favorable evidence. Certain witnesses need to be interviewed as soon as possible. Key evidence (faces, dates, events, and conversations) fades from memory over time. Also, video recordings and other evidence may be destroyed. Therefore, it is critical to begin an investigation as soon as possible to ensure valuable evidence is not lost. Success or failure in any criminal case may be determined in the decisions of the defendant and his or her Tennessee Criminal Defense Attorney in only a few hours or days after an arrest.

Contact Us Today

If you or someone you know has recently been arrested, contact the Oberman & Rice Law Firm today so that we can begin preparing a defense for your case. Submit your information for a free case evaluation from our Knoxville criminal defense attorneys or call our office at 865-249-7200.