Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Claycomo, MO. It’s normal for adolescents to get into trouble at some point, and in particularly difficult cases, this can also include legal trouble. Perhaps they felt like they didn’t have a 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 Claycomo, MO, isn’t a fun place to be in. Without a seasoned attorney, it’s easy to be intimidated and confused by an unfriendly juvenile justice system.
A Claycomo, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer from Combs Waterkotte can give you a guide through the legal process. Between protecting juvenile rights, dissecting the prosecution’s case, and fighting for sentencing alternatives, your attorney is essential. Working with an experienced defense attorney protects against lifelong consequences and maximizes the possibility of a positive outcome.
Don’t let a bad choice in the moment or a false accusation lead to lifelong consequences. Speak with a lawyer as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or through our web contact form.
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What Are Juvenile Crimes in Claycomo, MO?
Juvenile crimes are considered any crimes that were alleged to be committed while under the age of majority. In Claycomo, MO, the age of majority is 18 years old. After reaching the age of 18, Missouri will normally try alleged offenders in adult court.
That said, Missouri uses different ages to determine adulthood in different circumstances. One situation with a different age of majority is consuming alcohol: The legal age to drink is 21, not 18. Thus, a person can be accused of “underage drinking” even if you are over 18, but younger than 21 (you likely would not be tried in juvenile court for this, though).
Juvenile Crime Charges Our Lawyers Fight in Claycomo
The juvenile defense lawyers from Combs Waterkotte have extensive experience protecting Missouri youths against charges. If you or your child has been accused of a crime in Claycomo, MO, contact us right away.
We can help with the following criminal charges, and more:
Juvenile DWI: An underage DWI is just as dangerous as an of-age DWI. Maximum penalties include 6 months in jail, $500 in fines, and the loss of driving privileges.
Juvenile Traffic Violation: Juvenile traffic violations are are taken care of in traffic court, rather than juvenile court. Combs Waterkotte’s attorneys are skilled in both arenas.
Underage Drinking/Minor in Possession: Underage drinking includes actually consuming alcohol while underage and/or attempting to purchase it. A first offense is only a class D misdemeanor, but repeat offenses are elevated to a class A misdemeanor.
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: A child commits truancy if they skip school when they are required to go. Rather than the juvenile themselves being charged, often their parent/guardian is accused and can face 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: Juvenile auto crimes are commonly motivated by an adrenalin rush. 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 very easy for youths to engage with in the modern era. This can be a class E felony for first-degree cyberharassment, while second-degree cyberharassment is a class A misdemeanor.
Sexting: Some states have dedicated laws for minors sexting, but Missouri considers this to be an act of child pornography. The punishments for these charges can vary greatly, from a class D felony to a class A felony.
Rape: Rape is an incredibly difficult charge to face, 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 want to learn more about the intricacies of these cases, read our ultimate guide to juvenile crimes in Missouri.
How a Claycomo, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Can Help
Your Claycomo, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer will help you navigate the ins and outs of juvenile court. Here’s what you should expect:
- Help Understanding the Charges: The language in Missouri’s statutes can be unclear, and your attorney can explain them to you in an easier to understand way
- A Chance to Tell Your Story: Your lawyer should take a client-centered approach and keep you updated on your case.
- Help During Police Interviews: You’ll get more than just advice to stay silent – you’ll get someone by your side.
- Evaluation of Evidence: Your lawyer will look at the evidence against you and any exculpatory evidence.
- A Customized, Strong Defense Plan: Your attorney should build a unique defense on top of proven strategies.
- Protection of Your Rights: Juvenile rights matter, and your attorney should enforce them.
The sooner you find a leading juvenile crimes lawyer to take your case, the better your odds are of a positive outcome.
What Causes Juvenile Crime in Claycomo, MO?
It’s normal for people to engage in riskier behavior during their teenage years. This is especially prominent in the later teen years.
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. Finally, 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. A knowledgeable defense attorney will consider this and argue it as a mitigating factor in court.
Juvenile Court vs. Adult Court in Claycomo, MO
There are many parallels between the adult and juvenile justice process in Claycomo, MO, 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 | Typically taken directly to jail. | Law enforcement must notify parents/legal guardians and often release the youth to their custody. |
| Trial | Typically a full jury trial. | Generally a bench trial with a less formal attitude. |
| Sentencing | Typically under an attitude of retribution. | Frequently centered around rehabilitation. |
| Criminal Records | Publically available, unless sealed or expunged. | Only felonies are publicly accessible, in most cases. |
Despite these differences, there are times when a juvenile goes to adult court, particularly for felony allegations when the accused person is at least 12. If you’re in this situation, your Claycomo, 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 …
Long-Term Effects of a Juvenile Crime Conviction in Claycomo, MO
Being convicted of a crime as a youth can have life-lasting collateral consequences. When you don’t work with a seasoned defense attorney, you could end up with:
- Jailtime and fines
- Trouble at school
- Family relationship challenges
- Rejection from government assistance programs
- A negative reputation that doesn’t go away
Your Claycomo, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer maximize your chances of avoiding these outcomes. Deciding on the right defense attorney does more than protect your freedom; it also protects your future.
Resources for Claycomo, 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)
Top 5 Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Qualities in Claycomo, MO
There are lots of Claycomo, MO, juvenile crimes lawyers around, but not all of them are equal. When deciding who to represent you or your child, you need someone with the following:
- Prior experience helping juvenile defendants
- Experience with the specific charges in the accusation
- A personable demeanor where you’re treated like a human being
- A support team to help with investigation, communication, and logistics
- A willingness to go to trial to defend you
Our firm is dedicated to providing you with all of this, as well as always-available phone lines, support from former prosecutors, and relationships in courts all across Missouri.
Do You Need a Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Claycomo, MO? Talk to an Attorney Now
Juvenile crime accusations aren’t something you can ignore. They need to be addressed head on. It won’t be easy, but an experienced defense attorney can help you make it through.
Combs Waterkotte offers expert legal assistance to all the residents of Claycomo. We help you build a defense, explore diversion options, and won’t stop fighting until you get the justice you deserve.
To meet with a juvenile crimes lawyer in Claycomo, MO, today, call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a no obligation review of your case.
