Juvenile criminal charges are the same as those for adults; however, that is where the similarities end. It is incredibly important that you have a defense attorney representing you and your child who is familiar with the intricacies of juvenile criminal defense. SBL’s criminal attorneys understand how to handle juvenile cases and know that having a clean criminal record and, if necessary, the rehabilitation of the minor, not punishment of the minor, are the most important goals when defending a juvenile. The legal team at SBL is experienced at identifying what needs to be done for a juvenile case and is prepared to do the job properly from the start. If your child is convicted of any juvenile offense, there are real, long-lasting consequences that can stay with your child into adulthood. SBL will help defend you by making every effort to prevent this from happening.

Because the penalties are much harsher and more permanent as an adult, it is important that your child remains classified as a juvenile.

Unlike criminal court, your child is not found guilty or not guilty. In juvenile court, your child may be found delinquent or not delinquent by the court. If found delinquent, the court may sentence your child to a term of detention or supervised probation, order restitution, or require that your child participate in community service. If the charge is alcohol-related, including DUI, your child’s driving privileges may be revoked. Fortunately, juvenile delinquency determinations do not remain on permanent records upon reaching adulthood.