Juvenile Defense Lawyer Barry County, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Barry 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, no matter the severity, having a talented, experienced, and empathetic Barry County, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes of the utmost importance.

The legal professionals at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing individuals involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Barry County and throughout Missouri. Our legal team plays a crucial role in making sure that our young clients in Barry 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 case review. Our Barry County, MO attorneys are committed to providing expert legal advice and determining the most appropriate course of action for your situation.

Why You Need a Barry County, MO Juvenile Defense Lawyer

In Missouri, the Juvenile Division of the Circuit Court exclusively handles cases involving juvenile crimes, as well as matters related to abuse, neglect, adoptions, and more. This unique legal framework is especially advantageous for people facing juvenile charges in Barry County or anywhere else in Missouri. The Juvenile Division focuses on rehabilitative measures instead of punitive measures, emphasizing the importance of proper guidance and support for minors. However, this also means that you should have a knowledgeable Barry County, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.

The Combs Waterkotte Barry 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’s consideration. Call us today 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 circumstances 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 Barry 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 Barry County, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating for your rights and future.

Do not leave the outcome to chance in Barry 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 scenarios:

Diversion Programs

Juveniles may be eligible for diversion programs, which are alternative measures designed to divert them away from formal court proceedings. These programs often include counseling, community service in Barry County, MO, or educational components.

Probationary Period

This is a common outcome for juvenile offenders in Barry 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 Barry County, MO legal team is proficient in championing reasonable probation conditions, offering valuable guidance and assistance throughout the probationary period.

Restitution

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

Juvenile Detention

In cases of major or repeated offenses, the court may order juvenile detention or out-of-home placement in the Barry County, MO area. This decision is frequently made when community-based rehabilitation seems impractical.

Expungement

Certain juvenile records may be expunged or sealed after the juvenile reaches a specific age, completes the required program, or stays out of trouble for a defined period. However, some offenses may persist on the record even after reaching adulthood. It is crucial to consult with a Combs Waterkotte juvenile defense lawyer in Barry County, MO to understand the jurisdiction-specific guidelines. Our staff is available 24/7. Call us right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

It is crucial to note that the juvenile justice systems in Barry County and Missouri are crafted with a primary focus on the well-being of the juvenile, prioritizing rehabilitation and treatment. The final resolution will depend on the unique circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.

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

Juvenile offenses in Barry County, MO can encompass a spectrum of activities and can vary in severity, ranging from nonviolent to violent acts. Common types of juvenile crimes in Barry 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. 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 vary by jurisdiction, highlighting the importance of having an experienced juvenile defense lawyer on your side.
• Shoplifting and Theft/Burglary: Thankfully, the Missouri courts don’t feel children have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, such as 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: 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 commonally driven by different intentions than adult trespassing. Consequently, and fortunately for you, the courts apply different penalties for juveniles – including probation, diversion programs, fines, or, in the most severe cases, detention.
• Traffic Violations: Juvenile traffic violations are unique in that, as explained above, a juvenile becomes an adult for driving purposes at 15 ½. The Juvenile Division can’t take any cases over that age, yet if the traffic violation is severe enough to warrant jail time a juvenile DWI charge for example, 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 injuring another person or for seriously threatening to harm another person. Classified as assault in the fourth degree in RSMo. § 565.056, this is a misdemeanor and could result in jail time, community service, restitution, probation, counseling, or a fine.
• Arson: Penalties for juvenile arson cases can vary widely depending on the circumstances. In minor cases, juveniles could be required to fulfill 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 makes sure that the residents of Barry County, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. Along with juvenile defense in Barry County, MO, our lawyers are experienced in a variety of types of cases, 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 Barry County, MO?

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

Under RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge determines whether you will be tried as an adult after reading the charges, looking at your record, and after a hearing. Factors considered by the judge include the seriousness of the charges, the need to protect the community, whether the crime involved force or violence, whether you hurt another individual, whether you have a record of breaking the law, and your age.

If you are tried as an adult, our Barry County criminal defense lawyers will vigorously work to establish your innocence. In the event of a guilty verdict, a variety of outcomes might unfold. 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 a worst-case scenario, you may be immediately sent to an adult prison.

Connect With a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Barry County, MO Right Now at Combs Waterkotte

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

We comprehend the unique challenges and pressures 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, no-obligation case review.