Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Concordia, MO. Whether it’s fair or not, adolescents have a reputation for misbehaving. 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.
Regardless of why you’re there, juvenile court in Concordia, MO, isn’t always a nice place. On your own, it’s easy to be intimidated and confused by an unfriendly juvenile justice system.
A Concordia, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer from Combs Waterkotte can help get a youth’s life back on the right track. Between defending juvenile rights, building a strong defense, and exploring diversionary methods, your attorney is invaluable. Working with an expert defense attorney protects against long-term consequences and maximizes the odds of a positive outcome.
Protect yourself, your family, and your future. Get help today at (314) 900-HELP or via our web contact form.
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What Are Juvenile Crimes in Concordia, MO?
Juvenile crimes are considered any crimes that were alleged to be committed while under the age of majority. In Concordia, MO, the age of majority is 18 years old. After turning 18, in Missouri, an alleged offender is typically tried in adult court.
This can be a little complicated in special circumstances. A common example is drinking alcohol: To legally drink, a person needs to be at least 21 years old. Thus, a person can be accused of “underage drinking” even if you are 19-20 years old (these accusations are handled in adult court, though).
Common Juvenile Charges Our Lawyers Defend Against in Concordia
At Combs Waterkotte, our juvenile criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience protecting Missouri youths against charges. If you or your child has been accused of a crime in Concordia, MO, we can help.
Here are some of the most common types of charges we’ve helped clients defend against:
Juvenile DWI: An underage DWI can be even harder to handle than a DWI for an adult. At the high end, you can be facing 6 months in jail, $500 in fines, and the loss of driving privileges.
Juvenile Traffic Violation: Juvenile traffic violations are treated differently than other alleged juvenile offenses, in that they are tried in traffic court, not juvenile 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. Marijuana is frequently used by teens to manage stress and/or feel socially included.
Truancy: A child commits truancy if they skip school when they are required to go. Their parent or guardian can be held responsible for unexcused absences and be sentenced to a class C misdemeanor.
Shoplifting: Juvenile shoplifting charges frequently result in restitution, community service, and/or probation.
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. Penalties can include 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. Convictions can result in a wide range of penalties (class D to class A felony), depending on the specifics.
Rape: Rape is an incredibly difficult charge to 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 want to learn more about the intricacies of these cases, check out our ultimate guide to juvenile crimes in Missouri.
How a Concordia, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Can Help
Your Concordia, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer will advise you on the best way to move forward with your case. This is what Combs Waterkotte’s attorneys can offer you:
- Help Understanding the Charges: Missouri’s criminal statutes can feel like they are written in a foreign language, and your lawyer can explain them to you in an easier to understand way
- Space for Your Side of the Story: Your lawyer should take a client-centered approach and treat you like a person.
- Help During Interrogations: You’ll get more than just advice to stay silent – you’ll get someone by your side.
- Evaluation of Evidence: Your attorney will comb through the evidence and help conduct their own investigation.
- A Defense Strategy Built for You: Your lawyer should draw on their experience to find the best defense for your case.
- Enforcement of Your Rights: Juvenile rights can make the difference in your case, and your lawyer should guard them.
It’s never ‘too soon’ to call a juvenile crimes lawyer – contact one right away to set your case up for success.
What Causes Juvenile Crime in Concordia, MO?
An increase in risk-taking behavior is normal for most adolescents to go through, and as a result, many will engage in some form of criminal activity. People aged 15-17 in particular are responsible for most juvenile crimes.
A lot of juvenile delinquency is the result of peer pressure. This could either be the result of groupthink or one ringleader. 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.
On an unfortunate note, many juvenile delinquents are also crime victims and can feel forced into criminal activity as a result. The right defense attorney will highlight environmental factors and leverage them to find diversion options.
Juvenile Justice Process vs. Adult Justice Process in Concordia, MO
Concordia, MO, juvenile court may look similar to adult court, 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 notify parents/legal guardians and often release the youth to their custody. |
| Trial | Normally a formal 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 Concordia, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer can argue that the case should be kept 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?
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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 …
Impact of a Juvenile Crime Conviction in Concordia, MO
Juvenile criminial accusation and convictions can have long-term collateral consequences. Without professional legal help, you’re facing the following:
- A potential jail sentence or fine
- Trouble at school
- Family relationship challenges
- Trouble applying for government assistance
- A criminal record that creates education and employment hurdles
Your Concordia, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer maximize your chances of avoiding these outcomes. Working with the right attorney doesn’t just defend your freedom; it also protects your future.
Resources for Concordia, MO, Juveniles in the Justice System
If you or a loved one is in the Concordia, MO, juvenile justice system, take advantage of the below Missouri-specific resources:
- 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 Concordia, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
There are many Concordia, MO, juvenile crimes lawyers available, but some aren’t as prepared as others. When deciding who to represent you or your child, keep an eye out for the below 5 qualities:
- Prior experience defending juveniles
- Knowledge of the specific charges in question
- A client-first attitude where you’re treated like a person, not a case number
- A support team to help with investigation, communication, and logistics
- A willingness to go to trial to defend you
Combs Waterkotte brings all of this to your case, in addition to 24/7 phone support, support from former prosecutors, and relationships in courts all across Missouri.
Do You Need a Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Concordia, MO? Speak With an Attorney Today
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 is dedicated to providing Concordia juveniles with high-quality legal advice. We help you defend yourself, avoid jail if possible, and won’t stop fighting until you get the justice you deserve.
To talk to a juvenile crimes lawyer in Concordia, MO, now, call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message online to schedule a free consultation.
