Juvenile Defense Lawyer Gasconade County, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Gasconade County, MO. Facing legal hurdles and challenges as a juvenile can be a daunting, overwhelming experience both for you and your family. If you are facing charges, regardless of the severity, having a talented, knowledgeable, and empathetic Gasconade County, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes paramount.

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

Call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-strings-attached consultation. Our Gasconade County, MO lawyers will go over the specifics of your case with you and your family and provide legal guidance and the best course of action.

Why You Need a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Gasconade 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 juvenile is accused of a crime in Gasconade County or anywhere else in Missouri the Juvenile Division provides rehabilitative measures rather than punishment. However, this also means that you should have a knowledgeable Gasconade County, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.

The Combs Waterkotte Gasconade County, MO juvenile defense lawyer team has an abundance of 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’s consideration. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

Who is a Juvenile or an Adult Under Missouri Law?

In accordance with the juvenile code, an adult is defined as an individual aged 18 years or older, whereas a child refers to anyone under the age of 18. It’s crucial to note that age distinctions may vary for different situations under the laws of, such as:

• 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 purchase a long gun, or 21 for a handgun.

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

The possible outcomes for a juvenile accused of a crime can vary based on the severity of the offense, the juvenile’s prior record, and the specific circumstances of the case. All of these possibilities and what-ifs are exactly why you need a strong Gasconade County, MO juvenile defense attorney in your corner, fighting for your rights and future.

Don’t leave it to chance in Gasconade County, MO; reach out to the attorneys at Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online. Here are some of the potential scenarios:

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 Gasconade County, MO, or educational components, provide alternatives to traditional legal pathways.

Probation

This is a common outcome for juvenile offenders in Gasconade County and throughout Missouri. Probation could involve routine check-ins with a probation officer, adherence to specific conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our skilled Gasconade County, MO legal team is proficient in championing reasonable probation conditions, offering valuable guidance and assistance throughout the probationary period.

Restitution

In some cases in Gasconade County, MO, juvenile offenders may be required to make restitution to the victim(s), either through financial payments or community service.

Juvenile Detention

In instances of severe or repeated offenses, the court may mandate juvenile confinement or out-of-home placement in the Gasconade County, MO area. This frequently happens when rehabilitation within the community is deemed unfeasible.

Expungement

Certain juvenile records may be expunged or sealed upon reaching a certain age, successfully finishing required programs, or maintaining a clean record for a specified duration. However, some offenses may persist on the record even after reaching adulthood. It is vital to consult with a Combs Waterkotte juvenile defense lawyer in Gasconade County, MO to understand the jurisdiction-specific guidelines. Our team is available 24/7. Call us right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

It is crucial to note that the Gasconade County and Missouri juvenile justice systems are designed to focus on the best interests of the juvenile, emphasizing rehabilitation and treatment. The specific outcome 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 Gasconade County and Throughout Missouri?

Juvenile crimes in Gasconade County, MO encompass a range of offenses that vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent offenses. Common types of juvenile crimes in Gasconade County and throughout Missouri include:

• Truancy: Under Revised Statutes of Missouri § 167.031, also known as the Compulsory Attendance Law, parents must ensure that a child is enrolled in and regularly attends school. While homeschooling is an alternative, parents must demonstrate that the child receives 1000 hours of instruction.
• Curfew Violations: This involves being in public during hours when a minor is required to be at home. These hours can vary by jurisdiction, highlighting the importance of having an experienced juvenile defense lawyer on your side.
• Shoplifting and Theft/Burglary: Fortunately, the Missouri courts don’t feel children have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, such as shoplifting and theft, fall under the purview of 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: If a juvenile is charged with vandalism, their case is 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 serious cases, detention.
• Trespassing: Juvenile trespassing is typically driven by different intentions than adult trespassing. Fortunately, the courts see this and have far different penalties for juveniles – including probation, diversion programs, fines, or, in the most serious 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 beyond 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.
• Assault: Recent legislative changes mean that a juvenile may now face charges of simple assault for causing injury to another individual or making serious threats. Referred to as assault in the fourth degree under RSMo. § 565.056, this is a misdemeanor and could result in jail time, community service, restitution, probation, counseling, or fines.
• Arson: Penalties for juvenile arson cases can vary widely 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.
• Unlawful 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 skilled legal team ensures that the residents of Gasconade County, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Gasconade County, MO, our lawyers are experienced in a variety of forms of law, including:

• 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 Gasconade County, MO?

If you have been charged with a serious crime as a juvenile, you need to have a conversation with a defense attorney in Gasconade County, MO as soon as possible. The Combs Waterkotte legal team is available for free case reviews at (314) 900-HELP or by reaching out to us online.

According to RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge decides whether you will be tried as an adult based on the charges, looking at your record, and following a hearing. Factors considered by the judge include the gravity of the charges, whether the community needs to be protected from you, the presence of force or violence in the crime, whether you hurt another individual, your history of of breaking the law, and your age.

If you are tried as an adult, our Gasconade County criminal defense lawyers will vigorously work to establish your innocence. Yet, if you are found guilty, there are a variety of things that could happen. You could be placed on probation and given a second chance. You may spend some time in a detention facility and then later be sent to an adult prison. Or, in the worst-case scenario, you may be immediately sent to an adult prison.

Reach Out To a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Gasconade County, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

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

We understand the unique challenges and pressures of being a kid these days, and we leverage this understanding for your benefit. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, regardless of the severity of their charges. Call us immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us for a free, commitment-free case review.