When your child is facing juvenile criminal charges, it can be an overwhelming and emotional experience for parents. The juvenile system is different from the adult system, it’s more focused on rehabilitation and the child’s long-term well-being. As a parent, it’s important to understand the charges and the legal process so your child is treated fairly and gets the support they need.
This guide will give you an overview of common juvenile criminal charges, the legal process, and how you can help your child through it. Working with a Woodlands criminal defense lawyer can be a big factor in getting the best possible outcome for your child’s case, they will guide and advocate for your child throughout the process.
Juvenile Criminal Charges
Juvenile crimes can range in severity and type. Understanding the most common juvenile criminal charges can help parents and guardians navigate the legal process and support their children.
Theft or Shoplifting
One of the most common criminal offenses juveniles face is theft, often in the form of shoplifting. This is when a minor takes items from a store or individual without permission. The value of the items stolen may affect the severity of the charge, but theft is taken seriously in the juvenile system. Repeated offenses can lead to more severe consequences and intervention programs to correct the behavior.
Vandalism or Property Damage
Vandalism, including graffiti, defacement, or other property damage, is another common juvenile criminal charge. This can range from minor graffiti to more serious property destruction. Juvenile courts focus on restitution, the young offender has to fix the damage or pay the property owner. It’s not just about punishment but also about teaching accountability within the unique legal framework of the juvenile court system.
Drug Offenses
Drug-related charges, possession, use, or distribution are becoming more common among juveniles. Depending on the substance and amount involved, drug charges can have different consequences, from mandatory rehab programs to more severe penalties for repeat offenders or those involved in distribution. Juvenile courts emphasize treatment and education over punishment to deter future substance abuse within the juvenile justice system.
Assault or Fighting
Juveniles involved in physical altercations or violence may be charged with assault, including serious offenses like aggravated assault. This includes a range of offenses from schoolyard fights to more serious bodily harm. The court considers the severity of the injuries and any prior offenses when determining the penalties. Rehabilitation and anger management programs are often part of the response to these charges.
Status Offenses
Juvenile offenders are often involved in status offenses, which are acts that are only illegal because of the offender’s age. Examples include truancy, underage drinking, and curfew violations. These are less severe than juvenile criminal charges but can still result in court-ordered interventions, counseling, or community service to address the underlying issues causing the behavior.
Legal Process
The juvenile legal process within the criminal justice system is different from the adult system, it’s more focused on rehabilitation and guidance than punishment. Understanding the process can help parents and guardians navigate this journey.
Arrest
The juvenile legal process starts with the arrest of the minor in juvenile criminal cases. Law enforcement officers can detain the juvenile based on suspicion of committing an offense. Unlike adults, juveniles are often released to their parents or guardians after an arrest. However, in more serious cases, they may be taken to a juvenile detention facility pending further legal proceedings.
Juvenile Detention Facility
After the arrest, a decision is made on the detention of the juvenile. If the offense is serious or there is concern for the child’s safety or risk of flight, the juvenile may be held in a detention facility until the hearing. In less serious cases, the child may be released to their parents with conditions, such as a curfew or mandatory attendance in a rehab program. Detention can have long-term consequences, including the creation of juvenile criminal records, which may later be sealed or expunged to provide a second chance for young offenders.
Juvenile Court Hearings
The juvenile system is focused on rehabilitation, so the hearings are focused on determining the facts and what’s the best course of action for the juvenile offender. The adjudicatory hearing is where the court reviews the evidence and determines if the juvenile is responsible for the offense. If the court finds the juvenile at fault, a disposition hearing will follow to determine the measures to be taken. This could be probation to detention, depending on the severity of the offense.
Rehabilitation
Juvenile courts are focused on rehabilitation, not punishment. Instead of long sentences, the court will help the juvenile correct their behavior and get back into society. Common outcomes are mandatory counseling, educational programs, or community service to address the underlying causes of delinquent behavior and prevent future offenses. The Texas Juvenile Justice Department plays a crucial role in these rehabilitation efforts.
Parent’s Role
Parents are key in supporting their children through the juvenile legal process, and hiring a juvenile criminal defense attorney is crucial for navigating this complex system. They provide practical and emotional support to get the best outcome.
Getting Legal Representation
One of the most important roles parents play is getting a juvenile criminal defense attorney for their child. Juvenile cases can be complicated, and having an experienced attorney who knows juvenile law is crucial. A lawyer will help navigate the process, advocate for the child’s best interests, and protect their rights throughout the proceedings.
Attending Hearings
Parents are usually required to attend all hearings and legal proceedings in juvenile court involving their child. Their presence shows support and ensures they are informed of the details of the case and what the court decides. Being actively involved in the legal process can also impact the court’s perception of the family’s commitment to the child’s rehabilitation.
Emotional Support
The legal process can be overwhelming for a juvenile. Parents should provide emotional support, guidance, and reassurance throughout the process. Keeping open communication with the child and addressing their fears and confusion can help reduce the emotional impact of being charged and help them approach the issue more constructively within the juvenile justice system.
Working with Professionals
In many juvenile cases, the court will recommend or mandate involvement with counselors, educators, or other professionals. Parents should work with these individuals to support their child’s rehabilitation. Whether it’s following up on recommended counseling sessions or ensuring the child complies with court-ordered educational programs, parental involvement is key to getting good outcomes. Additionally, hiring a juvenile criminal defense attorney can provide essential legal support to navigate the complex juvenile justice system and protect the future of the child involved in criminal accusations.
Contact an Experienced Woodlands Criminal Defense Attorney Today!
If your child is facing juvenile criminal charges, it’s essential to act quickly and ensure they have the best legal representation from a juvenile criminal defense attorney. Our experienced team of juvenile criminal defense lawyers at Cowboy Law Group understands the complexities of juvenile law and is dedicated to protecting your child’s rights.
New clients get a free consultation, so contact us at 832-326-2932 ASAP!
