Has Your Child Been Charged With a Juvenile Offense?
Young people sometimes make poor decisions. In some cases, those poor decisions become valuable learning experiences. In other cases, they result in a conviction for a juvenile offense, fines, probation or even jail time. Those poor decisions can result in a lifetime of consequences unless the case is handled properly.
A conviction for a relatively minor juvenile offense can have a serious impact on a young person's life for years to come. In some cases, the prosecutor can seek to have the case moved to adult court for certain offenses, which can result in lengthy sentences in prison.
What is "Delinquent Conduct?"
Delinquent conduct is generally conduct that if committed by an adult could result in imprisonment or confinement in jail. Typically, once the authorities believe that "probable cause" exists that a juvenile between the ages of 10 and 17 committed an offense against the State of Texas (and iif the juvenile is not caught in the act by the authorities) then a Directive for Apprehension is issued.
The Directive for Apprehension is like an arrest warrant for the juvenile. Typically, when the juvenile suspect is apprehended, they are taken to the juvenile detention center. The juvenile is entitled to a hearing on whether or not they will be released pending trial within 10 days and can be represented by counsel. The magistrate at the detention hearing will make the decision of (1) whether or not the juvenile is a flight risk (in other words, does the magistrate/judge feel confident that the juvenile will return to court to face the charges; and (2) whether or not the juvenile would be a danger to him/herself or others if released into the custody of their guardian prior to facing the charges. It is imperative to have competent legal representation at that 10 day hearing so that the juvenile is well represented from the beginning of the case. Anything that the juvenile says or does while incarcerated at the detention hearing can and will be used against them at trial.
In short, the child needs an attorney as quickly as possible to tell them, "Keep your mouth SHUT!"
If your son or daughter has been charged with a juvenile offense, it is important to seek experienced legal representation. To arrange a free consultation with one of our juvenile defense lawyers, please contact us today at 972-608-0335 or 903-813-4778.
We aggressively defend juvenile clients charged with:
- DWI
- Drug charges
- Sex offenses
- Car theft
- Robbery
- Assault
- Shoplifting
- Underage drinking
- Stealing money and other forms of theft
- Trespassing
- Criminal mischief
Felony allegations expose your child to potential commitment in the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) until they turn 18 years old. Felony juvenile convictions can be used for enhancement purposes on subsequent offenses once your child reaches adulthood.
Contact Pelley Law Office, L.L.P.
Do not let a youthful indiscretion haunt your child for the rest of his or her life. Contact the criminal defense attorneys at Pelley Law Office, L.L.P. for a free initial consultation at 972-608-0335 or 903-813-4778.
