Scottsdale Endangerment Lawyer

Being charged with endangerment in Arizona is a serious matter. Unlike many criminal charges, endangerment does not require an actual injury to occur—only the risk of serious harm or death. That broad definition means a single moment of recklessness or a misunderstood situation can lead to life-changing consequences, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.

As a seasoned Scottsdale endangerment lawyer, Attorney Josh brings clarity, confidence, and legal precision to every case. At The Law Office of Joshua A. Lopez, LLC, we approach each situation strategically, because we know that Smart Defense. Strong Results. isn’t just a slogan—it’s a standard.

Under A.R.S. §13-1201, endangerment is defined as “recklessly endangering another person with a substantial risk of imminent death or physical injury.” In other words, you can be charged even if no one was actually harmed—only that someone could have been hurt.

This charge is usually treated as a Class 1 misdemeanor, but if the alleged conduct created a risk of imminent death, it can be elevated to a Class 6 felony. Either way, you face serious consequences, and working with a knowledgeable Scottsdale endangerment lawyer is essential to protecting your rights and reputation.

Endangerment charges can arise from a wide variety of everyday actions that law enforcement views as dangerous. Here are some of the most common examples we see in Scottsdale:

1. Reckless Driving

Speeding, weaving through traffic, or driving under the influence while passengers or pedestrians are nearby can lead to endangerment charges. Even if no crash occurs, putting others at risk may be enough for prosecutors to act.

2. Mishandling Firearms

Discharging a gun in public, pointing a weapon at someone, or leaving a loaded firearm where a child can access it are often treated as endangerment offenses. These cases carry added weight due to Arizona’s strong focus on responsible gun ownership.

3. Hazardous Home Environments

Living conditions that expose others—especially children—to danger can result in criminal charges. This includes drug use, manufacturing, extreme neglect, or failure to provide basic safety. Child endangerment cases are particularly serious and may result in felony charges.

4. Workplace Negligence

Failing to follow safety protocols in industries involving hazardous materials or heavy machinery can lead to endangerment charges, particularly if an employee or bystander is exposed to dangerous conditions.

5. Dangerous Pets or Animals

Allowing an aggressive animal to roam freely, failing to contain a dog with a history of biting, or ignoring leash laws can lead to criminal charges if someone is injured or put at risk.

In all of these cases, intent is not required. Prosecutors need only to show that your behavior was reckless and placed others in danger. But being accused does not mean you are guilty—Attorney Josh will make sure your side is heard.

Endangerment penalties vary based on whether the charge is filed as a misdemeanor or a felony:

Class 1 Misdemeanor

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines of up to $2,500
• Probation, community service, and counseling
• A permanent criminal record

Class 6 Felony

• 1.5 to 3 years in prison
• Loss of civil rights, including the right to own firearms
• Increased penalties for prior convictions
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens

Even a misdemeanor conviction can impact your job, housing, and personal life. Attorney Josh fights to get your charges dismissed or reduced, and if needed, to negotiate sentencing alternatives that avoid jail.

Attorney Josh brings a smart, results-oriented defense to every endangerment case. We investigate the facts, examine police conduct, challenge faulty assumptions, and expose weak evidence.

Potential defenses may include:

• Lack of recklessness – Your actions were not careless or outside normal behavior.
• No substantial risk – The alleged conduct did not actually create a real threat of harm.
• False accusations or exaggeration – The situation may have been misreported, misunderstood, or embellished.
• Violation of your rights – If police obtained evidence illegally or violated your Miranda rights, we can challenge the charges.
• Mistaken identity – Especially in chaotic scenes, it’s common for authorities to arrest the wrong person.

We take the time to build a custom strategy that fits your unique situation—because no two cases are the same, and you deserve a defense that reflects that.

You have many options when searching for a defense attorney—but few offer the combination of strategic thinking, legal experience, and personalized service that Attorney Josh delivers.

Here’s what makes our firm different:

• Deep knowledge of Arizona criminal law
• Personalized defense strategies that target weak points in the prosecution’s case
• A reputation in Scottsdale courts for strong, strategic courtroom presence
• Clear communication with you at every step
• A commitment to your freedom, your rights, and your future

When you’re facing high-stakes charges, you deserve nothing less than the strongest defense possible.

At The Law Office of Joshua A. Lopez, LLC, we understand how overwhelming an endangerment charge can feel—especially when you’re facing exaggerated accusations or when no harm actually occurred. That’s why we take a smarter approach to every case, using focused defense strategies to protect your record, reputation, and future.

Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, Attorney Josh will fight to reduce or dismiss your charges and ensure your rights are protected at every turn.

Schedule your free consultation today with a top-rated Scottsdale endangerment lawyer. We’re here to defend you with Smart Defense. Strong Results.

If you have recently been charged with endangerment in Scottsdale and are unsure how to move forward, contact our Scottsdale Endangerment Lawyer today. We are proud to provide a safe, legal space where those facing uncertainty can feel comfortable sharing what happened and securing the type of support they need. Don’t hesitate to see how our firm can assist you with an endangerment charge today.