A momentary lapse of judgment in Tacoma, Washington, can lead to life-altering consequences. Certain actions can create a serious risk to others, even if no one is harmed, and it can still lead to criminal charges. One such offense is reckless endangerment. Whether it involves unsafe driving or something else, this charge is taken seriously and has significant penalties.
If you are facing reckless endangerment charges, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the process and learn how a skilled Tacoma criminal defense attorney can make a big difference.
What Is Reckless Endangerment?Reckless endangerment is governed under RCW 9A.36.050, which states, “A person is guilty of reckless endangerment when he or she recklessly engages in conduct not amounting to a drive-by shooting but that creates a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another person.”
It is considered a gross misdemeanor, meaning it is more serious than a simple misdemeanor charge but less serious than a felony.
Key Elements of Reckless EndangermentTo convict you of reckless endangerment, the prosecution will need to prove:
You can be charged with reckless endangerment in Tacoma even if you didn’t intend to hurt anyone. Common scenarios include:
In Washington, DUI charges can sometimes be reduced to reckless endangerment, especially when there are mitigating factors.
The advantages of charge reduction include:
A reckless endangerment conviction in Washington carries the following potential consequences:
If you’re charged with reckless endangerment or a DUI (RCW 46.61.502) in Tacoma, here’s what you can expect:
Arrest and BookingA reckless endangerment charge isn’t as serious as a DUI, but it is still considered a criminal offense and will remain on your record unless expunged. It can impact your life in the following ways:
Your Tacoma defense attorney can explain all the options available to reduce the long-term consequences of a reckless endangerment charge on your record.
Child Endangerment and Aggravating Factors in TacomaDriving under the influence with a child in the vehicle can elevate a reckless endangerment charge to a more serious offense. The prosecution might even push for harsher penalties, including felony child endangerment or enhanced sentencing under Washington’s aggravating factor laws.
The right legal representation is essential in such cases, as your Tacoma defense attorney can challenge the prosecution and argue mitigating circumstances.
Relation to Other Charges in Tacoma, WashingtonReckless endangerment is sometimes used as a lesser charge in plea deals, particularly when it comes to DUI cases. While it carries significant penalties, it is still generally considered less severe than a DUI conviction and might not include mandatory license suspension or interlock device requirements.
Possible Defenses for Reckless Endangerment Charges in TacomaSome of the more common defenses your attorney may explore include:
The statute of limitations for gross misdemeanors in Washington is typically two years from the date of the alleged offense.
No. Recklessness is a higher standard than criminal negligence. The former involves a conscious disregard of a risk, while the latter is more about failing to act with reasonable care.
Yes, especially if you endanger pedestrians, cyclists, or other drivers by doing so. Aggressive or high-speed driving is sometimes charged in addition to or instead of reckless driving.
Yes, unless your Tacoma defense attorney arranges for a waiver of appearance, which is rare in criminal cases. Failing to appear in court can lead to a warrant for your arrest.
If you are charged within Tacoma city limits, your case might go through Tacoma Municipal Court. It could be handled in Pierce County District Court for unincorporated areas or county-level charges.
Washington allows gross misdemeanor convictions to be vacated after a waiting period of typically three years from the end of your sentence. This is assuming you meet all the eligibility criteria.
The prosecution can still pursue charges even without the victim’s cooperation, especially when the police have documented evidence or witnesses.
It is possible. While it isn’t a felony, firearm restrictions under federal and state laws could apply if the case involves domestic violence.
Yes. Even if you were only arrested or charged and not convicted, it can still show up. That’s why resolving or vacating the case is important for protecting your future.
An SOC is an agreement where prosecution is paused, and the case may be dismissed if you meet certain conditions, like staying out of trouble or completing a treatment program.
If you have been charged with reckless endangerment in Tacoma, you face more than just a fine or a court date. You could find yourself up against a criminal record, jail time, and other long-term consequences that can affect your job, housing, and reputation. A skilled Tacoma criminal defense attorney can make a real difference in your case.
Washington State law broadly defines reckless endangerment, so prosecutors push for the harshest possible interpretation. Your local attorney knows how Pierce County courts handle these charges and can use that insight to your advantage.
Additionally, many reckless endangerment cases are built on subjective judgments. Your attorney can question whether the substantial risk was present and may be able to get those charges reduced or even dismissed entirely.
Now isn’t the time to leave your future up to chance. If you’re facing reckless endangerment charges in Tacoma, having a trusted defense attorney at your side is one of the smartest decisions you can make.