Our team understands the unique nature of juvenile cases in San Diego. We'll work to protect your child's rights, future opportunities, and path to rehabilitation.
In the State of California juveniles (persons under the age of 18) will generally have their criminal cases heard in juvenile court. Juvenile Court, in many ways, is very different than adult criminal court. Most notably, since the juvenile court system places strong emphasis on rehabilitation – juvenile offenders are much more likely to receive a penalty:
The differences between adult and juvenile court, and the remarkably different approach the two courts take to sentencing, mean a minor will almost always fare better if their charges are kept within the juvenile court system, rather than be upgraded to adult court.
Along with different sentencing motivations, adult and juvenile courts share significant differences you will want to know about prior to your first appearance. While juvenile defendants share many of the constitutional protections afforded to adult defendants, several notable exclusions include:
Even though juveniles are not afforded many of the rights of their criminally accused adult counterparts, they still maintain the constitutional protections:
In many juvenile cases the charges are either cleared completely, or resolved using one of two methods: Informal Probation and Deferred Entry of Judgement.
Juveniles who complete these programs without violating their conditions will have the benefit of a sealed court record and a fresh start having learned from their mistakes. In cases where these programs are not an option, or if the minor violates the conditions of their probation, incarceration in a juvenile detention facility may result or the case may be moved to adult court. Parents who can afford an attorney knowledgeable and experienced in San Diego juvenile law will help protect their child or loved one from their youthful mistakes, giving them a second chance.
At David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys, we know the juvenile court system. We understand how the prosecution builds a juvenile case, the tactics they will use against a minor, and how to successfully respond to the allegations. If your son, daughter, or a juvenile you know has been arrested or charged with a crime, you need skilled legal representation fighting on your side. Do not let the courts intimidate your child into accepting a plea agreement out of fear or inexperience with the juvenile system!
We want to talk to you about your case, help you understand the juvenile court process, and answer your questions. Contact David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys today for your consultation by calling 619-295-3555. We believe you deserve answers, and we are standing by to give them to you.
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