Riverside Juvenile Crimes Lawyer

Providing Defense for Juvenile Criminal Cases in Riverside County

When a child or a teenager is accused of a crime, it can have a devastating impact on their life. Such an event can cause intense emotional distress and have lasting consequences. Depending on the outcome of the case, the occurrence can orient the child to a criminal record and so gravely affect his or her future. For this reason, it is imperative you contact a Riverside juvenile crimes attorney immediately.

Has your child been accused of a crime? Call the Law Offices of Grech & Packer today at (951) 291-0105 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our juvenile crimes attorney in Riverside. 

What are Common Juvenile Crimes?

Anyone under 18 years of age is considered a juvenile for the purposes of criminal law. Juvenile crimes cover a broad range of severity but commonly include:

• Theft
• Assault
• Drug abuse
• Disorderly conduct
• Underage alcohol consumption
• Vandalism
• Driving under the influence (DUI)

In most cases, matters of juvenile crime are addressed in the juvenile court system, which focuses on rehabilitation. Consequences are still not necessarily light and may include such things as fines, detention, probation, and mandatory counseling.

Understanding the Juvenile Justice System in California

Navigating the juvenile justice system can be complex and daunting for both the young individuals involved and their families. Unlike adult court, juvenile court focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment, which means that the outcomes can significantly differ. Our experienced Riverside attorneys at the Law Offices of Grech & Packer are here to guide you through every step of this process.

Key aspects of the juvenile justice system include:

• Confidentiality: Juvenile records are generally sealed, meaning they are not accessible to the public, which can help protect your child's future opportunities.
• Focus on Rehabilitation: The primary goal of the juvenile system is to rehabilitate rather than punish, offering programs designed to help young offenders learn from their mistakes.
• Legal Representation: Having a knowledgeable attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of a juvenile case, ensuring that your child's rights are protected throughout the process.
• Potential for Diversion Programs: Many cases may qualify for diversion, allowing juveniles to avoid formal charges and court appearances by completing specific programs or community service.

Penalties for Juvenile Crimes in California

While juvenile offenders are typically not subjected to the same penalties as adults, they still face significant consequences. The potential penalties for juvenile crimes can include:

• Detention: A juvenile may be held in a juvenile detention facility for a period of time. Depending on the severity of the offense and the age of the juvenile, this could be a short-term placement or longer confinement.
• Probation: Probation is a common alternative to detention. The court may order the juvenile to adhere to certain conditions, such as attending school, maintaining employment, staying drug-free, or reporting to a probation officer.
• Diversion Programs: In some cases, the juvenile may be eligible for a diversion program, which can include counseling, community service, or drug and alcohol education classes. Successful completion of a diversion program may lead to charges being dropped or reduced.
• Counseling and Therapy: Juvenile courts may order counseling or therapy to address behavioral issues, trauma, or other factors contributing to the offense. This is often part of a broader rehabilitation plan.
• Restitution: In cases involving theft, vandalism, or other property crimes, the court may order the juvenile to pay restitution to the victim to compensate for damages or losses.
• Wards of the Court: If a juvenile is found to be a ward of the court, they may be placed in the care of a probation officer or in a juvenile facility.
• Transfer to Adult Court: For particularly serious crimes, or if the juvenile has a history of offenses, the court may decide to transfer the case to adult criminal court, where the minor will face adult penalties, including prison time.

Can a Juvenile Be Charged as an Adult in California?

If the crime is particularly severe, the child may be charged and tried as an adult in the criminal courts. In this case, they are subject to the full penalties of the law as it applies to adult offenders. With so much at stake, it is vital you have competent and caring legal representation. You can turn to our juvenile crimes lawyer in Riverside to help determine the best course of action and fight to protect the rights of your child.

Long-Term Impact of Juvenile Criminal Charges

Facing juvenile criminal charges can have significant implications for a young person's future. Potential long-term effects of a conviction can extend beyond the immediate legal consequences. We believe in not only defending your child's rights but also in guiding families through the complexities of the juvenile justice system. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to minimizing the impact of these charges and helping your child achieve a brighter future.

Here are some key considerations regarding the long-term impact of juvenile crimes:

• Educational Opportunities: A juvenile record can hinder access to scholarships and certain educational programs.
• Employment Prospects: Many employers conduct background checks, and a criminal record can limit job opportunities.
• Social Stigmas: Young individuals may face stigma from peers and the community, affecting their social interactions and mental health.
• Legal Consequences: Some juvenile offenses can lead to adult charges if not handled properly, resulting in more severe penalties.

Our team is here to provide the support and legal representation necessary to navigate these challenges. We work diligently to explore all options, including diversion programs and expungement, to protect your child's future.

Contact Our Juvenile Crimes Attorney Today

At Law Offices of Grech & Packer, we consider it of utmost importance to attempt to help your child achieve the best possible outcome for his or her case. We offer a free consultation so that we may discuss the matter with you, hear your concerns, and answer any questions you may have. 

Our Riverside juvenile crimes attorneys want to make sure you understand the legal process involved so that you and your child can remain as comfortable as possible during the proceedings.

Contact Law Offices of Grech & Packer today to get started with our Riverside juvenile crime lawyer. Call now - (951) 291-0105