Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Trimble, MO. It’s easy for adolescents and juveniles to find themselves in tough situations. Maybe they felt like they didn’t have a choice. Or perhaps they didn’t realize what they were doing was wrong in the first place.
Whatever the reason, juvenile court in Trimble, MO, isn’t always a nice place. Without a skilled attorney, it’s easy to be intimidated and confused by an unfriendly juvenile justice system.
A Trimble, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer from Combs Waterkotte can help get a youth’s life back on the right track. Between defending juvenile rights, challenging the prosecution, and fighting for sentencing alternatives, your attorney is critical. Working with an expert defense attorney minimizes the long-term consequences and maximizes your chances of a positive outcome.
Protect yourself, your family, and your future. Talk to an attorney as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or via our online contact form.
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What Are Juvenile Crimes in Trimble, MO?
Juvenile crimes are considered any crimes that were alleged to be committed while under the age of majority. In Trimble, MO, the age of majority is 18 years old. After turning 18, in Missouri, an alleged offender is typically tried in adult court.
That said, Missouri uses different ages to determine adulthood in different circumstances. A common example is drinking alcohol: To legally drink, a person needs to be at least 21 years old. Thus, a person can be accused of “underage drinking” even if you are 19-20 years old (but you would be tried in adult court).
Juvenile Criminal Charges a Trimble, MO, Defense Lawyer Can Help Fight
At Combs Waterkotte, our juvenile criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience protecting Missouri youths against charges. If you or a family member has been accused of a crime in Trimble, MO, we’re ready for your call.
We have experience defending against all of the below criminal charges:
Juvenile DWI: An underage DWI is just as dangerous as an of-age DWI. Maximum penalties include 6 months in jail, $500 in fines, and the loss of driving privileges.
Juvenile Traffic Violation: Juvenile traffic violations are treated differently than other alleged juvenile offenses, in that they are tried in traffic court, not juvenile court.
Underage Drinking/Minor in Possession: Underage drinking includes actually consuming alcohol while underage and/or attempting to purchase it. First offenses only face fines of up to $500, but repeat offenses can result in up to a year of jailtime.
Juvenile Drug Possession: Drug possession laws vary greatly in scope, depending on the substance and amount allegedly held. Teens often use marijuana and other drugs to fit in and/or cope with stress.
Truancy: A child commits truancy if they skip school when they are required to go. Their parent or guardian can be held responsible for unexcused absences and be sentenced to a class C misdemeanor.
Shoplifting: While a juvenile shoplifting conviction rarely results in jail time, don’t underestimate its long-lasting effects.
Auto Theft/Joyriding: Auto theft is a serious charge for adults, and the same goes for juveniles. Auto theft is a class B felony, while joyriding is only a class D felony.
Cyber Harassment: Cybercrimes like online harassment and bullying are common charges youths face, given the amount of time they spend on social media. This can be a class E felony for first-degree cyberharassment, while second-degree cyberharassment is a class A misdemeanor.
Sexting: Some states have dedicated laws for minors sexting, but Missouri considers this to be an act of child pornography. Convictions can result in a wide range of penalties (class D to class A felony), depending on the specifics.
Rape: Rape is an incredibly difficult charge to face, with long-lasting impacts from a conviction. A second-degree rape conviction is a class D felony, while a first-degree rape conviction is a class A felony.
If you’re wondering about the details of these criminal charges, read our ultimate guide to juvenile crimes in Missouri.
The Role of a Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Trimble, MO
Your Trimble, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer will provide you with expert legal assistance to fight any allegations. Here’s what you should expect:
- An Explanation of the Charges: The language in Missouri’s statutes can be unclear, and your lawyer can explain them to you in plain English
- Space for Your Side of the Story: Your attorney should take a client-centered approach and give you respect.
- Help During Interrogations: You don’t need to face investigators alone.
- Evidence Analysis: Your lawyer will look at the evidence against you and any exculpatory evidence.
- A Defense Strategy Built for You: Your defense should be tailored to you, not a cookie-cutter strategy.
- Protection of Your Rights: Juvenile rights matter, and your lawyer should protect them.
Bringing a juvenile crimes lawyer in early can set your case up for a positive outcome in the long-run.
What Causes Juvenile Crime in Trimble, MO?
It’s normal for people to engage in riskier behavior during their teenage years. People aged 15-17 in particular are responsible for most juvenile crimes.
Social pressure is a major cause of juvenile delinquency. If one person in a group instigates risky behavior, others are more likely to follow. Youths from lower-income families are sometimes motivated to steal if they cannot afford something. Finally, underlying mental health issues can influence a youth to act out and/or look for ways to self-medicate.
On an unfortunate note, many juvenile delinquents are also crime victims and can feel forced into criminal activity as a result. A knowledgeable defense attorney will highlight environmental factors and leverage them to find diversion options.
Juvenile Justice Process vs. Adult Justice Process in Trimble, MO
There are many parallels between the adult and juvenile justice process in Trimble, MO, but there are several differences. The table below goes over several of the key distinctions:
| Adult Court Process | Juvenile Court Process | |
|---|---|---|
| Arrest/Custody Procedure | After an arrest, the alleged offender is taken to jail. | Law enforcement must inform parents/guardians of the arrest and often release the youth to their custody. |
| Trial | Normally a formal jury trial. | Generally a bench trial with a less formal attitude. |
| Sentencing | Often focused on punishment. | Normally treat rehabilitation as a priority over punishment. |
| Criminal Records | Visible to the public, unless sealed or expunged. | Only felonies are publicly accessible, in most cases. |
It’s important to note that there are circumstances when a juvenile can be tried as an adult, most notably for youths at least 12 years old who are charged with a felony. If this is the case for you, your Trimble, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer can argue that the case should be kept in juvenile court.
Legal Videos
What Types Of Crimes Can Juveniles Get Arrested For?
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Are Juvenile Criminal Or Arrest Records Public?
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If My Child Is Arrested As A Juvenile Will They Go To Jail?
If My Child Is Arrested As A Juvenile, Will They Go To Jail? Attorney Christopher Combs from Combs Waterkotte answers the question, "If my child is arrested as a juvenile, will they go to jail?"
Can A Juvenile Criminal Case Turn Into An Adult Case?
Can a juvenile criminal case turn into an adult case? Attorney Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answers the question "Can A Juvenile Criminal Case Turn Into An Adult Case?" Juvenile Criminal …
What Types Of Crimes Can Juveniles Get Arrested For?
What Types Of Crimes Can Juveniles Get Arrested For? Attorney Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answers, "What types of crimes can juveniles get arrested for?" Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyers …
Are Juvenile Criminal Or Arrest Records Public?
Are Juvenile Criminal Or Arrest Records Public? Attorney Christopher Combs from Combs Waterkotte answers the question, "Are juvenile criminal or arrest records public?" Juvenile Criminal Defense …
Are Children Obligated To Speak To The Police?
Are Children Obligated To Speak To The Police? Attorney Matt Brown from Combs Waterkotte answers the question, "Are children obligated to speak to the police?" Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyers in …
Do Juvenile Courts Lose Jurisdiction Over Youth When They Turn 18?
Do juvenile courts lose jurisdiction over youth when they turn 18? Attorney Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answers the question "Do Juvenile Courts Lose Jurisdiction Over Youth When They Turn …
If My Child Is Arrested As A Juvenile Will They Go To Jail?
If My Child Is Arrested As A Juvenile, Will They Go To Jail? Attorney Christopher Combs from Combs Waterkotte answers the question, "If my child is arrested as a juvenile, will they go to jail?"
Can A Juvenile Criminal Case Turn Into An Adult Case?
Can a juvenile criminal case turn into an adult case? Attorney Matthew Brown from Combs Waterkotte answers the question "Can A Juvenile Criminal Case Turn Into An Adult Case?" Juvenile Criminal …
Collateral Consequences of a Juvenile Crime Conviction in Trimble, MO
Being convicted of a crime as a youth can have major collateral consequences. Without professional legal help, you could end up with:
- A potential jail sentence or fine
- Educational issues as schooling is disrupted
- Family relationship challenges
- Denial of public assistance for families in need
- A negative reputation that doesn’t go away
Your Trimble, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer maximize your chances of avoiding these outcomes. Picking the right defense attorney doesn’t just defend your freedom; it also defends your future.
Missouri Juvenile Justice Resources
Use the following links for additional information and guidance regarding the juvenile justice system in Missouri:
- Missouri Juvenile Courts Collected Statutes (Justia)
- A Parent’s Guide to the Juvenile Justice System (Missouri Legal Services)
- Missouri Division of Youth Services (MO Department of Social Services)
- Missouri Juvenile Justice Protections Program (MO Department of Public Safety)
Top 5 Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Qualities in Trimble, MO
There are many Trimble, MO, juvenile crimes lawyers available, and you need to know how to pick the right one. When picking who to defend your case, keep an eye out for the below 5 qualities:
- Prior experience with juvenile cases
- Knowledge of the specific charges in question
- A personable demeanor where you’re treated like a human being
- A support team that helps build the case for you
- Defense that is built to be trial-ready
Our firm is dedicated to providing you with all of this, as well as always-available phone lines, insights from former prosecutors, and connections in courthouses across Missouri.
Don’t Let One Mistake Cause Lifelong Setbacks. Talk to an Attorney Today
Your life or your child’s life shouldn’t be determined by one bad decision. A seasoned defense attorney can guide you through the justice system.
Combs Waterkotte is ready to protect your rights, your future, and your freedom. We help you craft a defensive strategy, explore diversion options, and won’t stop fighting until you get the justice you deserve.
To meet with a juvenile crimes lawyer in Trimble, MO, as soon as possible, call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message online to set up a private consultation.
