A mistake in your child’s youth could follow him or her for the rest of his life.
The immediate effects of these mistakes could involve jail time, fines, and probation, which is problematic for a child’s social development and personal growth. Beyond jail time, legal troubles could hang over a child’s head well into their adulthood—costing them educational and professional opportunities.
If your child has been arrested or cited for legal issues such as vandalism, shoplifting, underage drinking, drug possession, or violent offenses, you need to consult with a juvenile criminal lawyer.
Our practice serves juveniles throughout the Oklahoma City area to help safeguard their futures and recover from youthful lapses in judgment. We have experience with juvenile cases involving many types of crimes including underage DUIs, burglary, allegations of sexual assault, and weapons possession.
The Effects of Criminal Charges for Juveniles
Criminal charges have lasting effects. While many people can change and grow beyond their mistakes, their past can come back to haunt them. This is especially true for young offenders. When juvenile offenders are convicted, they face unique challenges that increase their risks for turning to a life of crime from diminished opportunities and future law enforcement profiling. The critical period after incurring juvenile charges could make them susceptible to harsher punishments without representation.
There is also the problem of recidivism. People, including juveniles, who are charged with crimes are far more likely to be charged with future offenses than those with a clean record. This could be due to a person’s negative reputation preceding them and a proclivity for engaging in risky behavior. Repeat juvenile offenders can see jail time, sometimes well into their adulthood for serious crimes.
Beyond the effects of criminal offenses for juveniles is the devastating effects juvenile crime has on families. One of the best decisions a parent can make is hiring an attorney when their child is charged with a crime.
Myths about Juvenile Crime
When it comes to juvenile crimes, myths abound. If you fall victim to some of these misconceptions, it could hurt your child and your family. The most pervasive myth concerning juvenile crime is that it’s not a big deal that requires adequate legal representation. While it’s true that in the past, juvenile offenses were handled informally in municipalities, these cases are now handled in a formal setting with law enforcement investigations and decisive judicial proceedings.
Juvenile offenses could tie up months of your child’s youth in community service and fines. A juvenile could have their driver’s license revoked, too. With serious offenses, jail time is also a possibility. The myth that juvenile crimes result with a “slap on the wrist” couldn’t be more untrue.
Juvenile Criminal Defense in OKC
Our firm is experienced with representing juveniles for a number of offenses. We take special care to secure meaningful treatment of children in the judicial system. Our mission is to help your child avoid harsh punishments like jail time. We also strive to safeguard your child’s future by fighting for fair and equitable treatment under the law. Whenever possible, we try to negotiate for community service and rehabilitative sentences like counseling. It’s important to our team that your child has a chance at a bright future, not one riddled with hardship and unfairness.
If your child has been arrested or charged with a crime, call our firm as soon as possible to consult with our attorney. We serve residents in and around Oklahoma City.
Call us today for a free initial consultation to learn how we can help you. Reach us at 405-604-3200 or contact me online.