Juvenile Crime Lawyer in Los Angeles
When it comes to the criminal system, the primary goal of promoting public safety is always at the forefront. However, the juvenile justice system serves a unique and equally important purpose, focusing on the rehabilitation and treatment of the accused.
Juvenile courts address public safety and the punishment of the convicted—they also focus on the rehabilitation and treatment of the accused. To achieve this ultimate goal, the California juvenile justice system employs several methods and procedures that it believes will be effective.
This can include everything from treatment to incarceration. Other methods that are commonly utilized (severity escalating in accordance with the crime itself and the prior criminal history of the defendant) include the following:
- Probation (informal and formal);
- Community supervision; and
- Detention and incarceration
Therefore, this involves agencies, schools, and local and national organizations in an effort to treat juvenile offenders so that they do not end up incarcerated.
Research has shown that successful treatment significantly reduces the likelihood of repeat offenses. Courts often favor these outcomes, especially when the juvenile demonstrates a clear desire to change. This offers hope for a positive future despite the current challenges.
Juvenile Drug Possession in California
Dealing with criminal charges, especially those related to drug possession or sale, can be overwhelming. In such situations, having a competent legal team on your side is crucial. It not only protects your rights and freedoms but also provides you with the confidence to navigate the legal process, reassuring the audience of the importance of legal representation.
A juvenile crimes defense lawyer serving the Los Angeles area has the primary goal of defending you against any charges through demonstrated and successful defense procedures. At Cron, Israels & Stark, we represent juveniles charged with possession & sale of the following:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Ecstasy
Given that a juvenile drug charge may often be a minor's first encounter with the criminal justice system, it's crucial to ensure they have the necessary legal representation. A drug conviction can have serious long-term consequences, affecting an individual throughout their life.
If your minor child has been charged with a drug-related crime, our attorneys can advise you on what steps to take prior to trial or a sentencing hearing. By seeking help, you are taking an active role in your child's future, empowering the audience.
If the young adult can demonstrate to the judge that they are willing and have shown a clear desire to seek help, most prosecutors and judges are more inclined to reduce the charges.
This can have a long-term impact on your life to the benefit of you and your family, since juvenile drug offenders can face penalties that are often just as harsh as those for adult offenders.
What Constitutes A Juvenile Sex Crime?
A criminal offense committed by a minor of a sexual nature is simply called a juvenile sex crime. However, the seriousness or type of sex crime results in various penalties that can be wide-ranging in the negative effects on a young person's future. Some of the most common categories that juvenile sex crimes fall under are:
- Rape
- Date Rape
- Molesting a child
- Lewd conduct and behavior
- Possession/distribution of obscene material
In this day and age, it seems that more and more young people are being charged with sex crimes. With the proliferation of graphic movies, books, and music, plus society's permissive attitude, along with a zero-tolerance policy regarding sex offenses, our kids are certainly getting a mixed message.
If your child has been accused of a juvenile sex crime, contact a juvenile crime attorney today. You and your family need the kind of competence and know-how our firm can provide in order to protect your child from possible negative lifetime consequences, such as sex offender registration.
Allegations of committing a juvenile sex crime are difficult and distressing to deal with at any time. We can help protect your child's rights and freedoms.
If convicted, your child may have to register as a sex offender, commit to psychological evaluations, and face jail sentences ranging from just a few months to years. These consequences can have a significant and lasting impact on your child's life.
Has Your Child Been Criminally Charged?
If your child has been arrested, no matter whether it was for possession of alcohol, driving on a suspended license, joyriding, fake ID, or for something such as an under-21 DUI or drug possession, it is highly encouraged that you get the legal assistance of a knowledgeable juvenile crime lawyer.
California Penal Code 415.5 PC makes it a crime to willfully disturb the peace on school grounds or at school-related activities.
California Penal Code 4600 PC establishes that it is a criminal offense for inmates or detainees to damage or destroy jail or prison property while in custody.
With the involvement of an experienced attorney, steps can be taken to work towards getting penalties dismissed and rehabilitation favored over punishment.
It is essential to note that while juveniles are typically tried in juvenile court, this is not always the case. The prosecuting attorney could determine that the crime was severe enough to warrant not being adjudicated as juveniles and instead being placed in adult court, where the penalties would undoubtedly be much more severe.
You, therefore, need an experienced advocate to help prove your case and protect the best interests of your child.
Appealing a Juvenile Crime Conviction
In the United States, prior to 1967, juveniles were not granted many of the legal rights and privileges afforded to adults when charged with a crime.
A landmark 1967 case, In re Gault, changed all that forever, granting juveniles many of the same due process of law rights afforded to adults. Therefore, once a juvenile is convicted, they can appeal the decision using the proper court proceedings.
If your child has been convicted of a juvenile crime and is confused and frightened about their rights, they need to contact a juvenile crime defense lawyer in the Los Angeles area without delay.
Your child has the right to submit an application to the Juvenile Court requesting a rehearing of his or her situation if it is done absolutely by 10 days after the written copy was mailed regarding the decision previously made. If a judge rejects this application, you still have the right to appeal.
In appealing the findings of any court decision, you must clearly define what it is you want to occur. Do you want the entire decision overturned, or are you appealing only a portion of it? With a Notice of Appeal, you should know that your child and their lawyer must sign it. We can guide you through this process and ensure your appeal is properly filed.
Experienced Legal Representation
Having aggressive representation in a situation such as this can be the difference between successfully having your child's charges handled and having your child burdened with the consequences for the rest of their life.
So don't wait! Even if you have questions regarding dependency proceedings, juvenile law appeals, or even sealing juvenile records, we at Cron, Israels & Stark are here to help!
As certified criminal law specialists with over 80 years of combined attorney experience, we possess the expertise necessary to handle the most complex cases.
Our legal team is prepared to provide you and your child with a robust defense to challenge the conviction and safeguard your child's future. From crimes at school to juvenile sex crimes to even simple vandalism, you can trust that we will go the distance for you and your family.