Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Camden Point, MO. It’s easy for adolescents and juveniles to find themselves in tough situations. Perhaps they didn’t think things through and made a bad choice. Or maybe they were just hanging out with the wrong group of people and didn’t do anything wrong themselves.
In any case, juvenile court in Camden Point, MO, isn’t a fun place to be in. Without help, it’s easy to be intimidated and confused by an unfriendly juvenile justice system.
A Camden Point, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer from Combs Waterkotte can give you a guide through the legal process. Between defending juvenile rights, challenging the prosecution, and advocating for sentencing alternatives, your attorney is critical. Working with an experienced defense attorney minimizes the long-term consequences and boosts the odds 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 through our online contact form.
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What Are Juvenile Crimes in Camden Point, MO?
If you’re accused of a crime before turning 18 in Camden Point, MO, that is a juvenile crime. After reaching the age of 18, Missouri will normally try alleged offenders in adult court.
There are situations where 18 isn’t considered the age of majority, though. Laws relating to alcohol are a good example: To legally drink, a person needs to be at least 21 years old. Thus, you can be accused of “underage drinking” even if you are 19-20 years old (you likely would not be tried in juvenile court for this, though).
Common Juvenile Charges Our Lawyers Defend Against in Camden Point
The juvenile defense lawyers from Combs Waterkotte are ready to defend Camden Point youths against a variety of criminal charges. If you or a family member has been accused of a crime in Camden Point, MO, contact us right away.
Here are some of the most common types of charges we’ve helped clients defend against:
Juvenile DWI: An underage DWI are often even tougher to fight than an of-age DWI. Penalties can be as high as 6 months in jail, $500 in fines, and the suspension or loss of your driver’s license.
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. Repeat offenses can be punished by up to a year in jail.
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. Teens often use marijuana and other drugs to fit in and/or cope with stress.
Truancy: Missouri requires juveniles to attend school (outside of special circumstances). If they don’t, they can be convicted of truancy. This crime is unique in that the parent or guardian can be held primarily responsible, and convicted of a class C misdemeanor.
Shoplifting: Minor shoplifting charges are often treated more gently than adult theft, with orders of restitution instead of jail time.
Auto Theft/Joyriding: Auto theft is a serious charge for adults, and the same goes for juveniles. Stealing a car 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. Punishments can range up to a class E felony for first-degree cyberharassment, while second-degree cyberharassment is a class A misdemeanor.
Sexting: Minors engaged in sexting can find themselves in violation of child pornography laws in Missouri. These can range from being a class D felony to a class A felony, depending on the circumstances.
Rape: Rape is one of the most devastating accusations a juvenile can face, with lifelong impacts after 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, check out our ultimate guide to juvenile crimes in Missouri.
The Role of a Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Camden Point, MO
Your Camden Point, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer will defend your rights from day one. Here’s what you should expect:
- An Explanation of the Charges: The language in Missouri’s statutes can be unclear, and your attorney should help you understand the accusations
- A Chance to Tell Your Story: Your lawyer should take a client-centered approach and give you respect.
- Protection During Interrogations: You’ll get more than just advice to stay silent – you’ll get someone by your side.
- Evidence Analysis: Your law firm should analyze existing evidence and work with an expert investigator to find more.
- A Personalized Defense: Your attorney should build a unique defense on top of proven strategies.
- Enforcement of Your Rights: Juvenile rights can make the difference in your case, and your attorney should protect them.
Bringing a juvenile crimes lawyer in early can set your case up for a positive outcome in the long-run.
Common Motivations Behind Camden Point, MO, Juvenile Crimes
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. These issues are compounded with poverty issues, where some youths feel like they have to steal if they want to own certain things. Additionally, underlying mental health issues can influence a youth to act out and/or look for ways to self-medicate.
To compound the above factors, many juvenile delinquents are also crime victims and can feel forced into criminal activity as a result. An experienced defense attorney will paint the full picture for the court and advocate for sentencing alternatives.
Juvenile Court vs. Adult Court in Camden Point, MO
Camden Point, MO, juvenile court may look similar to adult court, but you still need to know about what distinguishes them. These are some of the most important ways they are different:
| Adult Justice Process | Juvenile Justice Process | |
|---|---|---|
| Arrest/Custody Procedure | Often taken to jail for processing. | Police are required to inform parents/guardians of the arrest and often release the youth to them. |
| Trial | Typically a full jury trial. | Generally a bench trial with a less formal attitude. |
| Sentencing | Often focused on punishment. | Frequently centered around rehabilitation. |
| Criminal Records | Typically public, unless sealed or expunged. | Only felonies are publicly accessible, in most cases. |
Despite these differences, there are times when a juvenile can be tried as an adult, particularly for felony allegations when the accused person is at least 12. If you’re worried about going to adult court, your Camden Point, 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 Camden Point, MO
Being convicted of a crime as a youth can have long-term collateral consequences. Without professional legal help, you could end up with:
- Jailtime and fines
- Educational issues as schooling is disrupted
- Strained family relationships both during and after the court process
- Trouble applying for government assistance
- A criminal record that gets in the way of future employment opportunities
Your Camden Point, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer will fight to protect you against all of this. Deciding on the right attorney doesn’t just protect your freedom; it also protects your future.
Resources for Camden Point, MO, Juveniles in the Justice System
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)
How to Pick a Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Camden Point, MO
There are many Camden Point, MO, juvenile crimes lawyers available, and you need to know how to pick the right one. When picking who to defend your case, be sure to find someone with the following qualities:
- Prior experience helping juvenile defendants
- Experience with the specific charges in the accusation
- Care for your wellbeing, rather than a callous attitude
- A support team to help with investigation, communication, and logistics
- Defense that is built to be trial-ready
Our firm is dedicated to providing you with all of this, in addition to always-available phone lines, support from former prosecutors, and relationships in courts all across Missouri.
Protect Your Child’s Future. Call Combs Waterkotte Today
Nobody wants to face the juvenile justice system alone. A seasoned defense attorney can guide you through the justice system.
Combs Waterkotte offers expert legal assistance to all the residents of Camden Point. We help you build a defense, explore diversion options, and maximize your chances of a positive outcome.
To meet with a juvenile crimes lawyer in Camden Point, MO, today, call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free review of your charges.
