Juvenile Crime Defense
When a minor under the age of 18 is accused of committing a crime in the state of California, their case is tried in the juvenile court system. Because juveniles differ from adults, the juvenile justice system is focused on rehabilitating minors, instead of punishing them as adult courts would. These courts are also concerned with the successful reintegration of underage defendants into society and overall public safety. Nevertheless, there are still many times when a juvenile might be incarcerated.
When a minor is arrested, it can be highly traumatic for both the child and their parents. . Your child could be declared a “ward of the court” and sent to a camp, detention facility ― or worse ― prison. Even if your child is not incarcerated, a juvenile offense can be difficult to expunge. Offenses such as juvenile sex crimes can carry lifelong consequences, and may add “strikes” or other sentencing enhancements that can affect the rest of the minor’s life.
If your child is charged with a crime, contact a juvenile court attorney immediately. They will explain your rights and empower you to make the best decision. A good juvenile crime defense can make all the difference in your child’s future.
Focus on Finding Solutions Now
What can you expect if your child is arrested for a juvenile offense? To begin with, cases against minors are “adjudicated” rather than “tried,” and proceedings are “hearings” rather than “trials.” Juvenile cases are heard before a judge, instead of a jury, who decides the outcome.
If your child is incarcerated for more than two days, they will receive a detention hearing within three court days. A juvenile detention hearing is the first court hearing that a minor attends after an arrest. At that time, a judge will decide if your child can go home before the next hearing.
A large degree of flexibility is built into juvenile law, however. The court will take into consideration is the age of your child, the severity of the crime, and your child’s criminal history, if any. For common offenses, such as skipping school or vandalism, the courts might decide your child can live with you under supervision or be put on probation and sent to a camp or ranch. For serious charges, such as assault or possession of a weapon, your child could be sent to the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation or another detention site. If the court determines a juvenile should be tried as an adult, then the case will move to the adult court system.
If your child is under investigation, or already arrested for a crime in the state of California, you need the legal services of an experienced juvenile criminal defense attorney. Attorneys can arrange for your child’s release from detention and represent your child in court hearings so that your case won’t be lost in the court system.
Looking Ahead
It’s essential to have the help of an experienced juvenile criminal defense attorney. They can work to get a case diverted, arrange for release from pre-adjudication detention, and prevent a juvenile from being tried as an adult. A skillful attorney is familiar with all types of evidence in criminal cases, and understands how best to protect your child’s rights.
Attorney David A. Stein has successfully defended juvenile cases, often getting acquittals or charges dismissed. He believes that juvenile crime defense is an opportunity to make a difference in the future of your child and will fight for the best possible outcome. If you’re looking for juvenile court attorneys in Orange County, call the Law Offices of David A. Stein today for a no-cost consultation.
