Tempe Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyer

When a child is charged with a juvenile crime, also called a "delinquent act", such as DUI or vandalism, it can have a devastating effect on the future for the young person. In such cases, it is crucial to have a knowledgeable Tempe juvenile crime defense lawyer handling the case from the moment the young person is arrested. A criminal defense attorney from the Knowles Law Firm understands the juvenile legal system and the importance of giving your child a second chance. Fighting to avoid a criminal conviction on a child's record is of utmost importance to the juvenile defense lawyers at the firm.

Juvenile Crime Lawyer in Tempe

There are certain differences in the treatment of a child in juvenile court and the treatment of a person tried as an adult in the criminal justice system. Juvenile court tends towards rehabilitation and adult court is concerned with punishment and deterrents. In some cases, however, of serious criminal charges, juveniles between 14 and 18 years of ages are tried as adults when a violent crime is involved, and the prosecutor may seek this option. These crimes can include offenses such as sexual assault, rape or other violent felony offense.

A juvenile is often released into the custody of a parent while waiting on adjudication, whereas adult court has heavier restrictions and often expensive bail with no opportunity for release before trial. An experienced defense lawyer from the firm recognizes that a young person may not have understood the consequences of their actions. In some cases, the young person has made a serious error in judgment and fighting to avoid the repercussions of a criminal conviction is vital - they have learned their lesson. In adult court, prosecutors may indulge in overkill in prosecuting a juvenile and seeking the maximum sentence for the offense, with little or no opportunity for rehabilitation. The defense team at the firm understands the value of rehabilitation for a juvenile as well as protecting your child's future prospects.

With the changes in the law regarding prosecution of a juvenile as an adult, there are now several possible challenges which your attorney from the firm can use to have the case heard in a juvenile court. The legal defense team is aggressive in pursuing all possible grounds for keeping young defendants within the juvenile court system. Even in less serious offenses, such as an underage DUI offense, it can be critical to the future of the young person to be supported by an attorney to protect their rights and future. Contact a juvenile crime defense lawyer at the Knowles Law Firm at once if your child has been charged with a criminal offense.

Contact a Tempe juvenile crime attorney at the firm who will explain your child's rights.