Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Maysville, MO. Whether it’s fair or not, adolescents have a reputation for misbehaving. Maybe they weren’t thinking things through and made a bad choice. Or perhaps they didn’t realize what they were doing was wrong in the first place.
Whatever the reason, juvenile court in Maysville, MO, isn’t always a nice place. On your own, it’s easy to get lost in a difficult juvenile justice system.
A Maysville, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer from Combs Waterkotte can help you find the right path forward. Between protecting juvenile rights, building a strong defense, and fighting for sentencing alternatives, your attorney is invaluable. Working with an experienced defense attorney minimizes the lifelong consequences and maximizes 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 via our online contact form.
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What Are Juvenile Crimes in Maysville, MO?
In Maysville, MO, juvenile crimes are any crimes committed before the alleged offender turns 18. 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).
Juvenile Crime Charges Our Lawyers Fight in Maysville
At Combs Waterkotte, our juvenile criminal defense attorneys are ready to defend Maysville youths against a variety of criminal charges. If you or your child is facing criminal charges in Maysville, MO, we’re ready for your call.
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. 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 unique in that they are not handled in juvenile court – instead, they are handled in traffic 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 offenses often differ greatly from one another, due to the number of different substances and related offenses. 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. This crime is unique in that the parent or guardian can be held primarily responsible, and convicted of 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. 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. Convictions can result in a wide range of penalties (class D to class A felony), depending on the specifics.
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.
To read more about individual case types, check out our ultimate guide to juvenile crimes in Missouri.
What to Expect From Your Maysville, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
Your Maysville, 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:
- An Explanation of the Charges: Missouri criminal law isn’t always clear, and your attorney can explain them to you in an easier to understand way
- A Chance to Tell Your Story: Your attorney should take a client-centered approach and keep you updated on your case.
- Protection During Police Interviews: You don’t need to face investigators alone.
- Evidence Analysis: Your lawyer will look at the evidence against you and any exculpatory evidence.
- A Defense Strategy Built for You: Your attorney should build a unique defense on top of proven strategies.
- Enforcement of Your Rights: Juvenile rights matter, and your lawyer should guard them.
Bringing a juvenile crimes lawyer in early can set your case up for a positive outcome in the long-run.
Common Motivations Behind Maysville, MO, Juvenile Crimes
Most people experience an increase in risk-taking behavior during adolescence. This is especially prominent in the later teen years.
This increase in risky behavior is compounded by peer pressure. If one person in a group instigates risky behavior, others are more likely to follow. 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.
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 Maysville, MO
There are many parallels between the adult and juvenile justice process in Maysville, MO, 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 | Often taken to jail for processing. | Police are required to inform parents/guardians of the arrest and will typically release the youth to them. |
| Trial | Typically a full jury trial. | Often there is no jury, and instead there is a bench trial. |
| Sentencing | Typically under an attitude of retribution. | Normally treat rehabilitation as a priority over punishment. |
| Criminal Records | Publically available, unless sealed or expunged. | Only felonies are publicly accessible, in most cases. |
It’s important to note that there are circumstances 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 Maysville, 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 Maysville, MO
Being convicted of a crime as a youth can have major collateral consequences. When you don’t work with a seasoned defense attorney, you’re facing the following:
- Months in jail
- Education setbacks
- Strained family relationships both during and after the court process
- Trouble applying for government assistance
- A negative reputation that doesn’t go away
Your Maysville, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer is here to help you avoid these consequences. Picking the right attorney does more than defend your freedom; it also protects your future.
Resources for Maysville, MO, Juveniles in the Justice System
Below are some resources available to assist juveniles and parents who find themselves involved in the Maysville, 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 Maysville, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
There are lots of Maysville, 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 with juvenile cases
- Knowledge about the statutes involved
- A personable demeanor where you’re treated like a human being
- 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, in addition to always-available phone lines, insights from former prosecutors, and connections in courthouses across Missouri.
Protect Your Child’s Future. Speak With 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 is dedicated to providing Maysville juveniles with high-quality legal advice. We help you craft a defensive strategy, find sentencing alternatives, and maximize your chances of a positive outcome.
To review your charges with a juvenile crimes lawyer in Maysville, MO, now, call (314) 900-HELP or reach out online to set up a free review of your charges.
