Juvenile Crime Attorney In Orange County, CA
At the Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, we recognize the severity and long-term ramifications that a juvenile conviction can have, which is why we provide aggressive representation for juveniles who want to protect their futures. As soon as possible, after your child has been charged with a theft crime, a gang crime, or any other offense, contact our firm for a confidential consultation with an Orange County juvenile defense attorney from our team. We have 20 years of experience and know how to fight the charges your child faces effectively.
Call The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman today at 714-879-5770 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our juvenile crimes attorney in Orange County!
Common Types of Juvenile Crimes
Juvenile crimes can range from minor infractions to more serious offenses, each carrying different consequences. Some of the most frequent crimes committed by minors include:
- Theft (shoplifting, burglary)
- Vandalism
- Underage drinking
- Drug possession or distribution
- Disorderly conduct
- Assault or other violent crimes
- Gang-related activities
At the Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, we understand that many juvenile offenses stem from impulsive decisions. Our goal is to provide robust defense strategies that help prevent one mistake from defining your child’s future.
Juvenile Crime Statistics
According to the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, an estimated 1,642,500 minors are arrested every year. In 2010, 1,000 persons under the age of 18 were arrested for murder or non-negligent manslaughter. An estimated 2,900 minors were arrested for forcible rape, along with 44,800 juveniles who were arrested for aggravated assault.
Other common juvenile arrests include burglary, robbery, theft, car theft, arson, fraud, drug abuse, disorderly conduct, alcohol-related offenses, and vandalism. At the Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, we believe that juveniles arrested for any crime have the right to the best legal representation they can find. Contact us today for the necessary legal defense if your child was arrested.
Renowned Success Rate
Criminal cases are often complicated. There are two sides to every story, and it is important that the court sees the situation clearly. We can help defend you in your criminal case and make sure your perspective is heard.
What Are the Penalties for Juvenile Crimes?
The juvenile crime penalties depend on the offense’s nature, the minor’s age, and any prior criminal history. While juvenile courts often focus on rehabilitation, serious offenses can still result in significant consequences. Common penalties for juvenile crimes include:
- Probation: The juvenile is placed under court supervision and must comply with specific guidelines.
- Community service: The juvenile may be required to perform unpaid work for the benefit of the community.
- Fines or restitution: Payment of fines or compensation to the victim may be mandated.
- Detention in a juvenile facility: In severe cases, minors may be placed in a juvenile detention center.
- Diversion programs: Some juveniles may qualify for educational, counseling, or community programs as alternatives to formal charges.
- Adult penalties: In extreme cases, juveniles may be tried as adults and face the same penalties, including long-term imprisonment.
If you are the parent of a juvenile who is in trouble with the law, you should also be aware that a criminal conviction can carry lifelong consequences, including:
- Ineligibility for scholarships or other educational opportunities
- Difficulties in securing credit, making future financial stability challenging
- Disqualification for employment, especially in jobs requiring background checks
Addressing juvenile charges proactively is critical to protecting your child’s future. Our firm is dedicated to minimizing the long-term impact of a conviction.
Defenses Against Juvenile Crimes
When your child is charged with a crime, exploring all possible defenses is crucial. At the Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, we tailor defense strategies to the specifics of each case, aiming to reduce charges or dismiss the case entirely. Common defenses in juvenile cases may include:
- Lack of intent: Arguing that the minor did not intend to commit the crime.
- Mistaken identity: Demonstrating that the juvenile was wrongfully identified as the perpetrator.
- Violation of rights: Challenging evidence obtained through unlawful searches or improper questioning by law enforcement.
- Self-defense: In cases involving assault or violence, showing that the juvenile acted in self-defense.
- Consent: Proving that the alleged victim consented to the juvenile’s actions, particularly in property crimes or peer disputes.
Our firm thoroughly examines all aspects of the case to ensure that every defense option is explored.
When Will My Child Be Tried as an Adult?
While most juveniles are tried in the juvenile justice system, there are cases where a minor may be tried as an adult. Factors that influence this decision include:
- The severity of the offense (e.g., murder or serious violent crime)
- The juvenile’s age, mainly if they are close to 18
- Prior criminal record or repeated offenses
- The nature and circumstances of the crime
When a juvenile is tried as an adult, the penalties, including lengthier prison sentences, can be far more severe. We work diligently to keep minors in the juvenile system, where the focus is on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
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Contact Our Orange County Juvenile Crimes Attorney Today
As a mother herself, our lead attorney understands that juvenile crime charges place a child’s future at stake, which is why she treats these cases as if the children were her own. We have many proven criminal defense strategies at our disposal, from challenging the reliability of the evidence to arguing that our client has been wrongfully accused or even demonstrating that the evidence was gathered in violation of our client’s Constitutional rights.
Contact The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman today to schedule a meeting with our juvenile crimes lawyer in Orange County!