Let's start with the basics. Under Alabama law, reckless endangerment is defined in Code § 13A-6-24. It applies when someone recklessly engages in conduct that creates a substantial risk of serious physical injury to another person.
That doesn't mean you intended to hurt someone. But it does mean that your behavior was considered so careless or risky that it put others in danger.
Definition from Code of Alabama § 13A-6-24]
“…recklessly engages in conduct which creates a substantial risk of serious physical injury to another person.”
Examples can include things like:
•    Firing a gun into the air in a populated area
•    Driving at extremely high speeds through traffic
•    Leaving a child unattended in a dangerous environment
Reckless endangerment is a Class A misdemeanor in Alabama. That means, if convicted, you're looking at:
•    Up to one year in jail
•    Fines up to $6,000
•    And a permanent criminal record
And let me be clear—this charge can have serious ripple effects on your job, your reputation, and even custody or immigration status.
The good news? A charge is not a conviction. There are several defenses we may be able to raise, depending on the facts of your case.
Some common strategies include:
•    Showing that your actions weren't actually reckless
•    Proving that no one was truly at risk
•    Or challenging how the police handled the investigation
Every case is unique, and that's why it's so important to talk to an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
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If you've been charged—or even just questioned—about reckless endangerment, here's what you should do right now:
1.    Don't talk to the police without a lawyer. You have the right to remain silent. Use it.
2.     Don't post about the incident on social media. Prosecutors will look.
3.    Call a criminal defense attorney who knows how to handle these charges in Alabama.