Orange County Juvenile Crimes Lawyer

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.