Columbia Juvenile Offenses Attorney
Because individuals under age 18 are not adults in the eyes of the law, there is a special system to address juvenile criminal offenses in Tennessee. Instead of merely punishing a minor, the laws aim to rehabilitate the youthful offender and reduce the likelihood of repeat criminal activity. If you or your child has a case pending in the Maury County Circuit Court Juvenile Division, it is likely that it will proceed according to these special rules.
While juvenile matters share some common features with adult criminal cases, there are key differences that make them far more complex. Instead of putting your future and rights at risk, rely on our team at Fort, Holloway, & Rogers, LLC to develop a solid defense strategy. Our goal is to minimize the implications and keep a case out of adult court, where the penalties and consequences increase substantially. Please contact our firm to set up a consultation with a Columbia juvenile offenses attorney who can advise you on details. Parents and youth can also benefit from reviewing some background information.
Key Facts About Juvenile Cases in Tennessee
In addition to the basic description above, there are some additional points to keep in mind about juvenile offenses:
- Criminal activity by a minor falls into one of two categories. A status offense is one based upon age and generally less serious, such as smoking or truancy. A delinquent offense is one that would be charged as a crime if committed by an adult. Examples include anything from theft or drunk driving to assault or homicide.
- A judge will typically order probation for a status offense, but the consequences are more serious for a delinquent offense. Depending on the severity of the charges, the youth could be detained in a juvenile facility.
- When the crime is one that would be classified as a felony if committed by someone over 18, a juvenile court judge could transfer the case to adult criminal court. At this point, the same punishment structure applies, including incarceration and fines.
Tips for Families After a Juvenile Offense Charge
It can be difficult to know exactly how to handle the situation, but there is one important recommendation for parents: Retaining a Columbia juvenile offenses lawyer should be a priority, even though you want to punish your child for a horrific mistake. Though Fort, Holloway, & Rogers, LLC will take care of details, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
- Juveniles have the same civil rights as adults, including the right to remain silent and be represented by counsel.
- Upon arrest, do not answer or provide statements.
- Never resist arrest or become confrontational with police. You could face even heftier charges, and make it more likely that your case will be transferred to adult court.
Contact a Columbia Juvenile Offenses Attorney for Assistance
To learn more about fighting allegations of juvenile delinquency, please contact Fort, Holloway, & Rogers, LLC by calling 931-901-2300 or visiting us online. We can schedule a consultation with a Columbia DUI juvenile offenses lawyer who will evaluate your circumstances and discuss defense strategies.
