Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Dearborn, MO. Whether it’s fair or not, adolescents have a reputation for misbehaving. Maybe they didn’t think things through and made a bad choice. Or maybe they were misinformed by someone else, and didn’t do anything wrong on purpose.
Whatever the reason, juvenile court in Dearborn, MO, isn’t always a nice place. On your own, it’s easy to be intimidated and confused by a difficult juvenile justice system.
A Dearborn, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer from Combs Waterkotte can help get a youth’s life back on the right track. Between defending juvenile rights, dissecting the prosecution’s case, and advocating for diversionary methods, your attorney is invaluable. Working with an expert defense attorney minimizes the lifelong consequences and maximizes your chances of a positive outcome.
Don’t let a bad choice in the moment or a false accusation lead to lifelong consequences. Get help now at (314) 900-HELP or through our online contact form.
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What Are Juvenile Crimes in Dearborn, MO?
In Dearborn, MO, juvenile crimes are any crimes committed before the alleged offender turns 18. 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. A common example is drinking alcohol: The legal age to drink is 21, not 18. Thus, a person 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 Dearborn
Combs Waterkotte’s juvenile crimes defense attorneys have extensive experience protecting Missouri youths against charges. If you or your child has been accused of a crime in Dearborn, MO, we’re ready for your call.
Whatever you’re facing, we’re ready for you. Here are some of the case types we’ve handled in the past:
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 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 is made illegal under Missouri’s “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: Missouri requires juveniles to attend school (outside of special circumstances). If they don’t, they can be convicted of truancy. Their parent or guardian can be held responsible for unexcused absences and be sentenced to 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: Juvenile auto theft allegations are some of the most serious that our lawyers commonly defend. 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. 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. Convictions can result in a wide range of penalties (class D to class A felony), depending on the specifics.
Rape: Rape is commonly regarded as one of the most serious criminal accusations, with a social stigma that can follow long after any prison sentence. 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.
What to Expect From Your Dearborn, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
Your Dearborn, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer will advise you on the best way to move forward with your case. When you work with a juvenile criminal defense attorney from our firm, you can expect the following:
- 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 treat you like more than a case number.
- Help During Interrogations: You don’t need to face investigators alone.
- Evaluation of Evidence: Your law firm should analyze existing evidence and work with an expert investigator to find more.
- A Defense Strategy Built for You: 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 lawyer should enforce them.
It’s never ‘too soon’ to call a juvenile crimes lawyer – contact one right away to set your case up for success.
Why Do Juveniles Break the Law?
Most people experience an increase in risk-taking behavior during adolescence. This is directly correlated with juvenile crime, as most juvenile crimes are commited by youths aged 15/17.
This increase in risky behavior is compounded by peer pressure. As adolescents see their friends engaging in risky behavior, they often feel compelled to take part themselves. Poverty can also be a factor, particularly in theft cases. 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 often don’t feel like they have a choice but to also break the law. A knowledgeable defense attorney will consider this and argue it as a mitigating factor in court.
Juvenile Justice Process vs. Adult Justice Process in Dearborn, MO
There are many parallels between the adult and juvenile justice process in Dearborn, MO, but there are several differences. The table below goes over several of the key distinctions:
| Adult Justice Process | Juvenile Justice Process | |
|---|---|---|
| Arrest/Custody Procedure | Often taken to jail for processing. | 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 | Typically under an attitude of retribution. | Normally treat rehabilitation as a priority over punishment. |
| Criminal Records | Publically available, unless sealed or expunged. | Misdemeanors are ordinarily sealed, while felonies are publicly accessible. |
It’s important to note that there are circumstances when a juvenile is taken through the adult justice process, particularly for felony allegations when the accused person is at least 12. If you’re in this situation, your Dearborn, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer can fight to keep the case in juvenile court.
Legal Videos
What Types Of Crimes Can Juveniles Get Arrested For?
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Are Juvenile Criminal Or Arrest Records Public?
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Do Juvenile Courts Lose Jurisdiction Over Youth When They Turn 18?
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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 …
Collateral Consequences of a Juvenile Crime Conviction in Dearborn, MO
A juvenile crime conviction can have long-term collateral consequences. When you try to handle it alone, you’re up against:
- Months in jail
- Trouble at school
- Strained family relationships both during and after the court process
- Trouble applying for government assistance
- A negative reputation that doesn’t go away
Your Dearborn, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer maximize your chances of avoiding these outcomes. Deciding on the right attorney does more than protect your freedom; it also defends your future.
Missouri Juvenile Justice Resources
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 Dearborn, MO
There are many Dearborn, MO, juvenile crimes lawyers available, but some aren’t as prepared as others. When picking who to defend your case, be sure to find someone with the following qualities:
- Prior experience defending juveniles
- Knowledge of the specific charges in question
- A personable demeanor where you’re treated like a human being
- A support team that helps build the case for you
- A willingness to go to trial to defend you
At Combs Waterkotte, we pride ourselves in fulfilling all of these qualities, in addition to always-available phone lines, insights from former prosecutors, and connections in courthouses across Missouri.
Don’t Let One Mistake Cause Lifelong Setbacks. Call Combs Waterkotte Today
Juvenile crime accusations aren’t something you can ignore. They need to be addressed head on. And with the right defense attorney, you can successfully find a positive outcome for your case.
Combs Waterkotte is ready to protect your rights, your future, and your freedom. We help you build a defense, find sentencing alternatives, and don’t back down, no matter what you’re facing.
To connect with a juvenile crimes lawyer in Dearborn, MO, today, call (314) 900-HELP or send us a message online to set up a free review of your charges.
