Phoenix Endangerment Lawyer

Endangerment charges in Arizona can be vague, complex, and incredibly damaging to your future. Whether you’re accused of a reckless act behind the wheel or putting someone at risk without causing actual harm, an endangerment charge can lead to jail time, a felony record, and lasting consequences. Even if no one was hurt, the law may still hold you criminally responsible.

As a seasoned Phoenix endangerment lawyer, Attorney Josh understands how broad and misunderstood these charges can be. At The Law Office of Joshua A. Lopez, LLC, we approach every case with clarity, precision, and strategic legal thinking. Our firm is built on one principle: Smart Defense. Strong Results.

Under Arizona Revised Statutes §13-1201, endangerment is defined as “recklessly endangering another person with a substantial risk of imminent death or physical injury.” This means that the law does not require any actual harm to occur—only that your actions created a serious risk of it.

Examples of actions that may lead to endangerment charges include:

• Speeding or weaving through traffic at high speeds
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Discharging a firearm in a populated area
• Leaving dangerous materials unsecured
• Aggressive or threatening behavior that puts someone at risk

Because the law is so broad, many people are charged without realizing they’ve done something criminal. That’s where Attorney Josh comes in. As your Phoenix endangerment lawyer, he will carefully examine the facts, challenge vague or overreaching accusations, and guide you through your best legal options.

Endangerment can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the risk involved.

Class 1 Misdemeanor Endangerment

This is the most common level and applies when there is a risk of physical injury without imminent death. Penalties may include:

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines up to $2,500 plus surcharges
• Probation, counseling, or restitution ordered by the court
• Damage to employment opportunities and reputation

Class 6 Felony Endangerment

This is more serious and applies when there’s a substantial risk of imminent death. Felony convictions carry:

• A prison sentence of 1.5 to 3 years (more with prior convictions)
• Permanent felony record
• Possible loss of civil rights (including gun ownership)
• Harsher restrictions on housing, employment, and licensing

In cases of vehicular endangerment, additional penalties can include:

• Driver’s license suspension or revocation
• Mandatory substance abuse counseling
• DUI charges if drugs or alcohol were involved
• Restitution for damages or injuries

At The Law Office of Joshua A. Lopez, LLC, we understand how these penalties can affect every part of your life. That’s why we work tirelessly to reduce or dismiss charges and protect your future.

Attorney Josh begins by investigating every aspect of your case. We look at the alleged conduct, whether your behavior met the legal threshold for “recklessness,” and how the state plans to prove their claim of risk.

Common defense strategies may include:

• Lack of Recklessness: Showing your actions were not criminally reckless or did not meet the legal definition of endangerment
• No Substantial Risk: Arguing that there was no genuine or immediate risk to another person
• False Allegations: Challenging inconsistent witness statements or motives to exaggerate the situation
• Violation of Rights: If law enforcement overstepped or conducted an illegal stop or search, evidence may be suppressed
• Lack of Evidence: The burden of proof is on the prosecution. If they can’t prove the risk or intent, we push for dismissal.

No matter how serious your case seems, we use smart, strategic defense to position you for the best possible result—whether that’s dropped charges, reduced penalties, or an acquittal.

When facing an endangerment charge, you don’t just need legal knowledge—you need insight, strategy, and a fierce advocate. That’s what sets Attorney Josh apart.

• Experienced defense against misdemeanor and felony charges
• Proven record of strong outcomes in high-stakes criminal cases
• Tailored legal strategies based on the unique facts of your case
• Clear, client-first communication from start to finish
• Respected in Phoenix courts for professionalism and legal precision

With Attorney Josh as your Phoenix endangerment lawyer, you’re not just another case file—you’re someone whose freedom and future matter.

At The Law Office of Joshua A. Lopez, LLC, we understand that good people can get caught in bad situations. Endangerment charges can feel overwhelming, especially when they arise from a misunderstanding, accident, or lapse in judgment.

That’s why we take a smart approach to your defense—analyzing the evidence, challenging weak accusations, and pushing back against unfair penalties. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony endangerment in Phoenix, Attorney Josh is here to fight for your future.

Schedule a free consultation today with a top-rated Phoenix endangerment lawyer. Let us protect your rights and pursue the strongest possible outcome for your case.

If you find yourself charged with endangerment in Arizona, don’t leave it to chance because the penalties can become severe if you fail to defend yourself in court. There is also a higher risk of a harsher sentence if you have a prior conviction. However, by partnering with a trusted and experienced, criminal law firm like Attorney Josh, The Law office of Joshua A. Lopez, LLC, you are assured that you have access to the right legal options to defend yourself properly. We can also fight on your behalf for a lighter sentence or get the case dismissed if possible.

To learn more about our endangerment service and other criminal legal services, don’t hesitate to set up a legal consultation with our Endangerment Lawyer. One of our criminal lawyers is ready to take on your case and make it easier for you to understand it and its possible outcomes.

We proudly represent clients in:

• Phoenix
• Mesa
• Scottsdale
• Maricopa County