Juvenile Crime Defense Attorney in Stuart, Florida
Raising children is the hardest job anyone could have, and as their independence grows, the responsibility widens. At The Law Office of Denise Miller, PA, our Stuart, Florida juvenile defense attorney knows that simply because your child was arrested, does not mean that s/he is guilty, and we want to help prove their innocence.
The juvenile court system is designed to rehabilitate minors with just punishments that educate them and allow them to grow. Young people often learn from their mistakes, when given the opportunity to do so. That opportunity is developed with the exacting legal representation of our Stuart Juvenile Crime Defense Attorney will provide, which allows us to successfully resolve Stuart juvenile criminal cases, so your child can go back to maturing wisely.
What Are Considered Juvenile Crimes in the State of Florida?
When a minor, male or female, who is under the age of 18 years old, commits a crime, that activity is considered a juvenile crime. When anyone — minors included — commits a criminal offense, they can be arrested and charged with that crime in a court of law.
Juvenile courts, as part of the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, will oversee your child’s case, and rule on the punishment. Our Stuart, Florida juvenile crime attorney has more than twenty years of experience and has successfully represented hundreds of minors who have been charged with a crime, alleviating the stress and anxiety both the minor and their families endure as the process unfolds.
Juvenile crimes can include:
- Criminal mischief
- Curfew violations
- Delinquency
- Disorderly conduct
- Drugs, including possession, sale, manufacture, delivery, and trafficking
- Gang-related activities
- Juvenile violation of probation
- Sex crimes, including sexual assault, sexual battery, solicitation, and prostitution
- Shoplifting and other theft crimes
- Traffic Offenses, including DUI, speeding, or reckless driving
- Trespassing
- Underage drinking
- Violent crimes including arson and assault
Your child has rights, and in fact has additional protections that adults do not, including the right to have their name redacted for confidentiality purposes and the right to have their parents present during questioning sessions with law enforcement officials.
No matter what your juvenile was arrested for and charged with, our Juvenile Crime Defense Lawyer will provide a clear understanding of what the charges mean, and what type of punishment the Juvenile Courts can pursue while ensuring their rights are protected.
Will My Child Be Jailed for a Juvenile Crime in Florida?
Depending on the charges that are filed against your child, their punishment could be severe and result in incarceration. That is why it is so important to retain an experienced Stuart juvenile crime attorney who has an impeccable, knowledgeable, and aggressive reputation within the juvenile court system.
The juvenile justice system process is:
- Interaction with law enforcement, which results in a citation or an arrest
- An arrest will lead to an assessment that measures the risk of the juvenile’s actions; s/he will either be released to the parents or be held up to 21 days in a juvenile detention facility
- During an initial hearing, the evidence will be submitted to the courts to charge the minor, and a plea can be entered on their behalf by an attorney, who will also work with the courts to create a plan for the minor’s rehabilitation — when the charges allow — including:
- Classes and counseling
- Community service
- Participation in a diversion program
Denise Miller is an accomplished Stuart juvenile crime defense attorney who will uncover the facts in your minor’s case, investigate all existing evidence the juvenile criminal court has on file for admissibility, and uncover the prosecutor’s weaknesses to determine the best approach to legal success.
We believe in rehabilitation, and that your child should receive a second chance. Allow our Stuart Juvenile Crime Defense attorney to provide that opportunity, so your child can return home where s/he belongs.
As with any unlawful activity, the more serious the crime, or if it is committed by a repeat offender, the juvenile will suffer more serious consequences, which can include:
- Probation
- Juvenile detention programs
- Juvenile prison for extended sentences that last from 18 – 36 months
When your child’s crime is severe enough that returning home is not an option, including extenuating circumstances and crimes that will lead to a juvenile being charged as an adult, it is important to retain an accomplished Stuart, Florida juvenile crime attorney right away to ensure s/he is effectively protected and that his or her rights are not violated while s/he is detained.
Is Your Juvenile In Trouble With Law Enforcement in Florida? Contact Stuart Juvenile Crime Defense Attorney Today For Help
If your child is in trouble with law enforcement, facing the facts behind their arrest can be difficult. You may have no idea where to turn, or how to help, and we have the answers. Contact our experienced juvenile crimes attorney in Stuart, Florida at The Law Office of Denise Miller, PA today at 772-934-6007 to learn how to protect your child’s rights and create a positive legal plan to move forward.
Our Stuart juvenile crime defense attorney knows this is a difficult time, and we want to help guide you through the court system while offering the peace of mind you need. Call us now to find out how we can help you and your child put these charges behind you.
At Law Office of Denise Miller, our criminal and family law firm in Stuart, FL focuses on the following practice areas:
Family Law, including:
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- DCF/Dependency cases
- Divorce
- Paternity
- Post Judgment Modifications
- Spousal Support
Criminal Defense, including:
Related Links:
- The Legal Rights of Juvenile Offenders in Florida: What Every Parent Should Know
- Can a Juvenile in Florida Be Questioned by Police Without Their Parent Present?
Juvenile Crime Defense in Florida: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How is the Legal Process Different for Juveniles Compared to Adults?
The legal process for juveniles differs significantly from that for adults. Juvenile cases are generally handled in a separate court system, focusing more on rehabilitation than punishment. Juvenile offenders may face different procedures, including diversion programs, and their records are typically sealed or expunged upon reaching adulthood, depending on the case.
What Are the Potential Consequences for a Juvenile Convicted of a Crime?
The consequences for a juvenile convicted of a crime can vary widely based on the nature of the offense and the juvenile's prior record. Potential outcomes include probation, community service, counseling, detention in a juvenile facility, or placement in a residential treatment program. Our goal is to minimize these consequences and focus on rehabilitation and support.
What Are the Potential Consequences for a Juvenile Convicted of a Crime?
Yes, in many cases, a juvenile record can be expunged or sealed, which means it will not be accessible to the public or show up on background checks. The eligibility for expungement or sealing depends on the specifics of the case, including the nature of the offense and whether the juvenile has met certain conditions. We can assist with the process to help ensure a fresh start.
What Are the Potential Consequences for a Juvenile Convicted of a Crime?
A juvenile crime defense attorney can provide crucial support in navigating the legal system, protecting your child's rights, and ensuring they receive a fair trial. We will evaluate the evidence, develop a strong defense strategy, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent your child in court. Our aim is to achieve the best possible outcome and minimize any long-term impact on your child's future.
What is the Role of Parents in a Juvenile Criminal Case?
Parents play a vital role in a juvenile criminal case. They are responsible for supporting their child emotionally and financially during the legal process. Additionally, parents can work with the attorney to provide relevant information, attend court hearings, and ensure their child complies with any court-ordered programs or conditions.
Can a Juvenile Be Tried as an Adult?
In certain circumstances, a juvenile may be tried as an adult, especially for serious offenses or if the juvenile has a significant criminal history. This process, known as "adult certification" or "transfer," varies by state and case specifics. An experienced juvenile crime defense attorney can help navigate these complex legal issues and advocate for a juvenile's case to remain in the juvenile court system.
What Are Some Common Defenses in Juvenile Crime Cases?
Common defenses in juvenile crime cases may include proving that the juvenile was not involved in the crime, showing that the evidence is insufficient or was obtained illegally, or demonstrating that the juvenile acted in self-defense or under duress. Each case is unique, and our goal is to identify the most effective defense strategy based on the specifics of the situation.