Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Lake Winnebago, MO. It’s easy for adolescents and juveniles to find themselves in tough situations. Maybe they felt like they didn’t have a choice. Or perhaps they were just in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Whatever the reason, juvenile court in Lake Winnebago, 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 Lake Winnebago, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer from Combs Waterkotte can help get a youth’s life back on the right track. Between protecting juvenile rights, challenging the prosecution, and exploring diversionary methods, your attorney is critical. Working with an expert defense attorney minimizes the lifelong consequences and increases the odds of a positive outcome.
Don’t let a bad choice in the moment or a false accusation lead to lifelong consequences. Get help today at (314) 900-HELP or via our online contact form.
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What Are Juvenile Crimes in Lake Winnebago, MO?
If you’re accused of a crime before turning 18 in Lake Winnebago, MO, that is a juvenile crime. Most of the time, after reaching the age of 18, crime allegations are handled in standard criminal court.
There are situations where 18 isn’t considered the age of majority, though. Laws relating to alcohol are a good example: 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 (these accusations are handled in adult court, though).
Common Juvenile Charges Our Lawyers Defend Against in Lake Winnebago
The juvenile defense lawyers from Combs Waterkotte will fight for children’s rights in Lake Winnebago court. If you or your child is facing criminal charges in Lake Winnebago, 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 are tricky because MIssouri has a “zero tolerance” BAC threshold for youths. Maximum penalties include 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 includes actually consuming alcohol while underage and/or attempting to purchase it. Repeat offenses can be punished by up to a year in jail.
Juvenile Drug Possession: Drug possession laws vary greatly in scope, depending on the substance and amount allegedly held. Teens often use marijuana and other drugs to fit in and/or cope with stress.
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: While a juvenile shoplifting conviction rarely results in jail time, don’t underestimate its long-lasting effects.
Auto Theft/Joyriding: Juvenile auto theft allegations are some of the most serious that our lawyers commonly defend. Auto theft 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. These can range from being a class D felony to a class A felony, depending on the circumstances.
Rape: Rape is an incredibly difficult charge to face, 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.
To read more about individual case types, check out our ultimate guide to juvenile crimes in Missouri.
What to Expect From Your Lake Winnebago, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
Your Lake Winnebago, 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 criminal law isn’t always clear, 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 give you respect.
- Protection During Interrogations: 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 Personalized Defense: Your lawyer should draw on their experience to find the best defense for your case.
- Protection of Your Rights: Juvenile rights matter, and your attorney 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 Lake Winnebago, 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. This is especially prominent in the later teen years.
A lot of juvenile delinquency is the result of peer pressure. This could either be the result of groupthink or one ringleader. Youths from lower-income families are sometimes motivated to steal if they cannot afford something. Additionally, youths facing mental health challenges may lack self-control, and/or feel additional pressures to break the law.
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 highlight environmental factors and leverage them to find diversion options.
Juvenile Court vs. Adult Court in Lake Winnebago, MO
There are many parallels between the adult and juvenile justice process in Lake Winnebago, MO, but you still need to know about what distinguishes them. The table below goes over several of the key distinctions:
| Adult Court Process | Juvenile Court Process | |
|---|---|---|
| Arrest/Custody Procedure | After an arrest, the alleged offender is taken to jail. | Police are required to notify parents/legal guardians and often release the youth to them. |
| Trial | Typically a full jury trial. | Typically a less formal bench trial. |
| Sentencing | Typically under an attitude of retribution. | Frequently centered around rehabilitation. |
| Criminal Records | Publically available, unless sealed or expunged. | Misdemeanors are ordinarily sealed, while felonies are publicly accessible. |
While these differences are important, there are cases when a juvenile is taken through the adult justice process, typically in felony cases where the youth is at least 12 years old. If you’re worried about going to adult court, your Lake Winnebago, 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?
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Are Children Obligated To Speak To The Police?
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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 Lake Winnebago, MO
Being convicted of a crime as a youth can have long-lasting collateral consequences. Without professional legal help, you could end up with:
- Jailtime and fines
- Educational issues as schooling is disrupted
- Family relationship challenges
- Rejection from government assistance programs
- A negative reputation that doesn’t go away
Your Lake Winnebago, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer is here to help you avoid these consequences. Picking the right attorney does more than protect your freedom; it also defends your future.
Resources for Lake Winnebago, MO, Juveniles in the Justice System
Below are some resources available to assist juveniles and parents who find themselves involved in the Lake Winnebago, 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 Lake Winnebago, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
There are lots of Lake Winnebago, MO, juvenile crimes lawyers around, and you need to know how to pick the right one. When deciding who to represent you or your child, be sure to find someone with the following qualities:
- Prior experience in juvenile court
- Knowledge of the specific charges in question
- Care for your wellbeing, rather than a cold attitude
- A support team to back up the attorney’s work
- A willingness to go to trial to defend you
At Combs Waterkotte, we pride ourselves in fulfilling all of these qualities, as well as always-available phone lines, insights from former prosecutors, and connections in courthouses across Missouri.
Don’t Let One Mistake Cause Lifelong Setbacks. Speak With an Attorney Now
Your life or your child’s life shouldn’t be determined by one bad decision. An expert defense attorney will advocate for you and help you find the best path forward.
Combs Waterkotte is ready to protect your rights, your future, and your freedom. We help you craft a defensive strategy, explore diversion options, and don’t back down, no matter what you’re facing.
To meet with a juvenile crimes lawyer in Lake Winnebago, MO, now, call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to schedule a confidential case review.
