Some mistakes can lead to serious consequences, especially for juveniles. Often, these children have committed crimes that can result in criminal charges. Many of these crimes do have lesser sentences than if an adult committed the offense.
However, those serious crimes could result in the minor charged and sentenced as an adult. If your child was accused of a crime, you need to speak to an experienced juvenile defense lawyer.
In the state of Florida, the law classifies an individual as a juvenile up to the age of 17. Many of these juvenile crimes are labeled as “delinquent acts.” In a juvenile court, the judge will hear many different cases involving minor and criminal offenses.
Minors often do not understand the consequences of their activities due to the lack of emotional, psychological, and mental maturity. If your child has been accused of a juvenile crime, you must contact a Jacksonville defense attorney. Even though these crimes are designated as “minor,” they could result in severe penalties.
Florida’s juvenile offenses are called delinquency or status offenses in the criminal justice system. Depending on specific circumstances, these crimes have various degrees of penalties.
Status offenses are crimes that are only applicable to juveniles. These are minor crimes with less severe penalties. Some of these crimes include:
Another type of juvenile crime is known as a delinquency offense. If an adult committed these crimes, the case would be heard in a criminal court. However, these cases are still presented in juvenile court for a minor. Some of these offenses include:
In those cases involving a minor, the prosecutors can either file an informal or formal action against the juvenile. Many of these actions will depend on the facts of the case and the severity of the offense.
If an informal action is issued against the juvenile, it only consists of a warning. The case is dismissed, and the minor is remanded into the custody of the parents. These offenses will not be a part of the juvenile’s permanent record. Some of the penalties include counseling, fines, restitution, and community service.
For those serious crimes, the minor could face formal action. When the prosecutor files a formal charge in the court, a judge will hear the petition. The minor must attend all the court proceedings.
While many of these cases are heard without the presence of a jury, it is vital to have a lawyer present for all the hearings. There are several outcomes for these violations, such as:
Juvenile crimes are serious. Without the proper legal representation, your child could have a permanent criminal record. These minor crimes can lead to lost scholarship opportunities or job offers in the future. Any delinquent act needs the assistance of a criminal defense attorney in Jacksonville.
Your attorney can protect your child’s legal rights and find the best options for their defense. In some cases, the lawyer can help reduce or even drop these charges.
These juvenile crimes have a unique nature, and your child must be represented by someone who understands the law. A minor mistake should not penalize a minor for the rest of their lives. In some cases, the attorney can request alternative forms of punishment, including community service, counseling, and rehabilitative programs.
If your child has been charged or accused of a juvenile crime, you want to hire the best representation for the case. Many of these changes can damage the reputation of your child and family. With a criminal record, the child’s future could be limited as well.
You need someone who can fight for your child’s legal rights as you proceed through the complicated juvenile justice system in Florida.
Darryl Smith understands the justice system. He can help form a defense in your favor as you determine all the options for your case. With an experienced lawyer, you will be well represented in all forms of the process. Make sure to contact Darryl’s Jacksonville office to schedule a consultation.
If you have any questions, call or email Darryl today for a free case review/consultation.
Call : (904) 779-3646
dsmith@smithandeulo.com 7 days/week 24 hours