Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Adrian, MO. Whether it’s fair or not, adolescents have a reputation for misbehaving. Maybe they acted on an impulse without thinking about the long-term consequences. Or maybe they were just in the wrong place at the wrong time.
In any case, juvenile court in Adrian, MO, isn’t a fun place to be in. Without help, it’s easy to get caught up in a complicated juvenile justice system.
A Adrian, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer from Combs Waterkotte can help you find the right path forward. Between protecting juvenile rights, dissecting the prosecution’s case, and advocating for diversionary methods, your attorney is critical. Working with an expert defense attorney protects against long-term consequences and increases the possibility of a positive outcome.
Don’t let a bad choice in the moment or a false accusation lead to lifelong consequences. Talk to an attorney now at (314) 900-HELP or via our web contact form.
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What Are Juvenile Crimes in Adrian, MO?
Juvenile crimes are considered any crimes that were alleged to be committed while under the age of majority. In Adrian, MO, the age of majority is 18 years old. After reaching the age of 18, Missouri will normally try alleged offenders in adult court.
This can be a little complicated in special circumstances. One situation with a different age of majority is consuming alcohol: The legal age to drink is 21, not 18. Thus, you can be accused of “underage drinking” even if you are 19-20 years old (but you would be tried in adult court).
Juvenile Crime Charges Our Lawyers Fight in Adrian
The juvenile defense lawyers from Combs Waterkotte will fight for children’s rights in Adrian court. If you or a family member is facing criminal charges in Adrian, MO, contact us right away.
We can help with the following criminal charges, and more:
Juvenile DWI: An underage DWI can be even harder to handle than a DWI for an adult. Maximum penalties include 6 months in jail, $500 in fines, and the loss of driving privileges.
Juvenile Traffic Violation: Juvenile traffic violations are unique in that they are not handled in juvenile court – instead, they are handled in traffic court.
Underage Drinking/Minor in Possession: Underage drinking and attempts to purchase alcohol are covered by the same “minor in possession” law. 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 have a wide range of penalties, depending on the type of drug, the amount, and whether or you were allegedly distributing it. Peer pressure and stress management are common motivations for teen drug use.
Truancy: Truancy is when a youth doesn’t attend school under Missouri’s legal requirements. This crime is unique in that the parent or guardian can be held primarily responsible, and convicted of 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 very easy for youths to engage with in the modern era. Punishments can range up to a class E felony for first-degree cyberharassment, while second-degree cyberharassment is a class A misdemeanor.
Sexting: In Missouri, there is no dedicated law regarding minors sexting, so these actions fall under child pornography laws. These can range from being a class D felony to a class A felony, depending on the circumstances.
Rape: Rape is commonly regarded as one of the most serious criminal accusations, 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 Adrian, MO
Your Adrian, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer will advise you on the best way to move forward with your case. Here’s what you should expect:
- Help Understanding the Charges: Missouri’s criminal statutes can feel like they are written in a foreign language, and your lawyer should help you understand the accusations
- A Chance to Tell Your Story: Your attorney should take a client-centered approach and give you respect.
- Help During Police Interviews: You’ll get more than just advice to stay silent – you’ll get someone by your side.
- Evidence Analysis: Your attorney will comb through the evidence and help conduct their own investigation.
- A Customized, Strong Defense Plan: 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.
The sooner you find a leading juvenile crimes lawyer to take your case, the better your odds are of a positive outcome.
Common Motivations Behind Adrian, MO, Juvenile Crimes
Most people experience an increase in risk-taking behavior during adolescence. This is especially prominent in the later teen years.
Social pressure is a major cause of juvenile delinquency. As adolescents see their friends engaging in risky behavior, they often feel compelled to take part themselves. Youths from lower-income families are sometimes motivated to steal if they cannot afford something. Additionally, 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 might only break the law in order to protect themselves. An experienced defense attorney will highlight environmental factors and leverage them to find diversion options.
Juvenile Court vs. Adult Court in Adrian, MO
There are many parallels between the adult and juvenile justice process in Adrian, MO, but they are not identical. These are some of the most important ways they are different:
| Adult Court Process | Juvenile Court Process | |
|---|---|---|
| Arrest/Custody Procedure | Typically taken directly to jail. | Law enforcement must inform parents/guardians of the arrest and normally release the youth to their custody. |
| Trial | Typically a full jury trial. | Often there is no jury, and instead there is a bench trial. |
| Sentencing | Typically under an attitude of retribution. | 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. |
While these differences are important, there are cases 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 you’re worried about going to adult court, your Adrian, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer can fight to keep the case in juvenile court.
Legal Videos
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 …
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 Adrian, MO
Being convicted of a crime as a youth can have major collateral consequences. When you don’t work with a seasoned defense attorney, you’re up against:
- A potential jail sentence or fine
- Education setbacks
- Familial separation and difficulties
- Trouble applying for government assistance
- A negative reputation that doesn’t go away
Your Adrian, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer is here to help you avoid these consequences. Picking the right person doesn’t just defend your freedom; it also protects your future.
Missouri Juvenile Justice Resources
Below are some resources available to assist juveniles and parents who find themselves involved in the Adrian, MO, justice system:
- 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)
What to Look for in Your Adrian, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
There are lots of Adrian, MO, juvenile crimes lawyers around, but some aren’t as prepared as others. When picking who to defend your case, keep an eye out for the below 5 qualities:
- Prior experience in juvenile court
- Knowledge about the statutes involved
- A personable demeanor where you’re treated like a human being
- A support team to back up the attorney’s work
- A willingness to go to trial to defend you
Combs Waterkotte brings all of this to your case, as well as always-available phone lines, insights from former prosecutors, and connections in courthouses across Missouri.
Get Help from Adrian, MO’s Leading Juvenile Crimes Lawyer. Call Combs Waterkotte Now
Nobody wants to face the juvenile justice system alone. And with the right defense attorney, you can successfully find a positive outcome for your case.
Combs Waterkotte offers expert legal assistance to all the residents of Adrian. We help you defend yourself, avoid jail if possible, and won’t stop fighting until you get the justice you deserve.
To meet with a juvenile crimes lawyer in Adrian, MO, as soon as possible, call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a private consultation.
