Juvenile Defense Lawyer Andrew County, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Andrew County, MO. Navigating the difficulties of the legal system as a juvenile can be a daunting experience for both you and your family. If you are facing charges, regardless of their severity, it’s crucial to have a skilled, experienced, and compassionate Andrew County, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side.

The juvenile defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing individuals involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Andrew County and throughout Missouri. Our legal team plays a crucial role in ensuring that our young clients in Andrew County, MO and their families receive equitable treatment and the best chance for rehabilitation. We realize that good people find themselves in difficult situations, and we are dedicated to doing everything within our power to provide assistance.

Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-strings-attached consultation. Our Andrew County, MO lawyers are committed to providing expert legal advice and determining the most appropriate course of action for your situation.

Why You Need a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Andrew County, MO

In Missouri, the Juvenile Division of the Circuit Court exclusively handles juvenile crimes, along with cases of abuse, neglect, adoptions, and other things. This is extremely beneficial to you due to the fact that when a minor is accused of a crime in Andrew County or anywhere else in Missouri the Juvenile Division provides rehabilitative measures instead of punishment. However, navigating the juvenile court system requires the expertise of an experienced Andrew County, MO defense attorney familiar with its intricacies.

The Combs Waterkotte Andrew County, MO juvenile defense lawyer team boasts extensive experience in defending young clients. We collaborate with the court to secure the most favorable outcome for you and provide crucial elements like character statements and mitigating factors for the judge to consider. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

Who is a Juvenile or an Adult Under Missouri Law?

For purposes of the juvenile code, an adult is an individual 18 years of age or older while a child is anyone under 18. It’s crucial to note that age distinctions may vary for different situations under the laws of, including:

• For driving purposes, there is a range between 15 ½ and 18 depending on the type of driver’s license.
• To consume or possess alcoholic beverages, an individual must be 21 years of age.
• An individual must be 18 to buy a long gun, or 21 for a handgun.

What Are Some Possible Outcomes of a Juvenile Accused of a Crime in Andrew County or Elsewhere Throughout Missouri?

The potential resolutions for a juvenile facing criminal accusations depend on factors like the gravity of the offense, the juvenile’s prior legal history, and the specific details of the case. These possible outcomes underscore the importance of having a dedicated Andrew County, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating for your rights and future.

Do not leave it to chance in Andrew County, MO; reach out to the lawyers at Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online. Here are some of the potential outcomes:

Diversion Programs

Juveniles may qualify for alternative programs aimed at diverting them from formal court proceedings. These initiatives, such as counseling, community service opportunities in Andrew County, MO, or educational components, provide alternatives to traditional legal pathways.

Probationary Period

Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Andrew County and across Missouri. It typically involves routine check-ins with a probation officer, compliance with specified conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our experienced Andrew County, MO legal team excels in advocating for reasonable probation terms and offering invaluable support and guidance throughout the probationary period.

Restitution

Some Andrew County, MO cases may involve juvenile offenders being obligated to provide restitution to the victim, either through financial payments or community service.

Juvenile Detention

In instances of severe or repeated offenses, the court may order juvenile confinement or placement outside of the home in the Andrew County, MO area. This frequently occurs when rehabilitation within the community is deemed unfeasible.

Expungement

Some juvenile records may be expunged or sealed upon reaching a specific age, successfully finishing required programs, or maintaining a clean record for a specified duration. In some cases though, certain offenses can remain on your record even after you turn 18. It is vital to consult with a Combs Waterkotte juvenile defense lawyer in Andrew County, MO for guidance on the specific guidelines per jurisdiction. Our team is available 24/7. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

It is important to note that the Andrew County and Missouri juvenile justice systems are designed to focus on the best interests of the juvenile, emphasizing rehabilitation and treatment. The final resolution will be contingent upon the unique circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.

What Are the Different Types of Juvenile Crimes in Andrew County and Throughout Missouri?

Juvenile crimes in Andrew County, MO encompass a spectrum of activities and can vary in severity, ranging from nonviolent to violent offenses. Common types of juvenile crimes in Andrew County and throughout Missouri include:

• Truancy: Under Revised Statutes of Missouri § 167.031, also known as the Compulsory Attendance Law, parents are obligated to make sure their child is enrolled in and regularly attends school. Homeschooling is an option, but parents must prove the child is getting 1000 hours of instruction.
• Curfew Violations: This involves being in public during hours when a minor is required to be at home. These vary by jurisdiction, highlighting the importance of having an experienced juvenile defense lawyer on your side.
• Shoplifting and Theft/Burglary: Thankfully, the Missouri courts recognize that children may not have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, including shoplifting and theft, are handled by the Juvenile Division, which tends to course-correct juveniles who steal by releasing them to their parents or possibly in more serious cases ordering restitution, probation, a diversionary program, counseling, or even detention or home confinement.
• Vandalism: Cases of juvenile vandalism are also heard by the Juvenile Division. To be charged, vandalism must be proven to be purposeful. Penalties range from restitution and fines to probation or, in severe cases, detention.
• Trespassing: Juvenile trespassing is commonally driven by different intentions than adult trespassing. Fortunately, the courts apply different penalties for juveniles – including probation, diversion programs, fines, or, in the most severe cases, detention.
• Traffic Violations: Juvenile traffic violations have a unique aspect – the age at which a juvenile is considered an adult for driving purposes is 15 ½. The Juvenile Division can’t handle cases over that age. Yet, if a traffic violation is serious enough to warrant jail time, such as a juvenile DWI charge, the traffic court judge will likely request the juvenile court to supersede.
• Simple Assault: Due to recent law changes, a juvenile may now be charged with simple assault for causing injury to another individual or making serious threats. Referred to as assault in the fourth degree according to RSMo. § 565.056, this is a misdemeanor and could result in jail time, community service, restitution, probation, counseling, or a fine.
• Arson: The penalties for juvenile arson vary wildly based on the specific circumstances. In minor cases, juveniles might be required to pay restitution or perform community service and undergo counseling, but it can certainly become a major charge.
• Gun Possession: Unfortunately, cases of juveniles facing charges for unlawful possession of a firearm are not uncommon. Potential penalties for this offense range from fines to more severe consequences like detention or even incarcertation.

Our knowledgeable legal team ensures that the residents of Andrew County, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. Along with juvenile defense in Andrew County, MO, our attorneys are experienced in a variety of forms of law, such as:

• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer
• Sexual Misconduct Lawyer
• Traffic Ticket Lawyer
• Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
• Speeding Ticket Lawyer

Who Decides if a Juvenile Can Be Tried as an Adult in Andrew County, MO?

If you are facing serious charges as a juvenile, it is vital to consult with a defense attorney in Andrew County, MO promptly. The legal team at Combs Waterkotte offers free consultations, accessible through (314) 900-HELP or via our online contact form.

According to RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge decides whether you will be tried as an adult after reading the charges, your record, and after a hearing. The judge will consider the gravity of the charges, the need to protect the community, the presence of force or violence in the crime, harm inflicted on others, your history of of breaking the law, and your age.

If you are tried as an adult, our Andrew County criminal defense attorneys will vigorously work to establish your innocence. In the event of a guilty plea or verdict, a variety of outcomes may unfold. You might receive probation for a second chance, spend time in a detention facility followed by transfer to an adult prison, or, in the worst-case scenario, face immediate placement in an adult prison.

Connect With a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Andrew County, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

Securing the services of an adept juvenile defense lawyer is vital for ensuring a fair and just outcome for minors navigating the legal system in Andrew County or elsewhere in Missouri. With adept legal representation, Andrew County, MO juveniles stand a better chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.

We recognize the pressures and challenges of being a kid these days, and we use this knowledge to your advantage. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, no matter the severity of their charges. Give us a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us for a free, commitment-free consultation.