Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Windsor, 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 were just hanging out with the wrong group of people and didn’t do anything wrong themselves.
In any case, juvenile court in Windsor, MO, can be challenging to navigate. Without a seasoned attorney, it’s easy to get lost in an unfriendly juvenile justice system.
A Windsor, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer from Combs Waterkotte can help get a youth’s life back on the right track. Between protecting juvenile rights, dissecting the prosecution’s case, and fighting for diversionary methods, your attorney is critical. Working with an expert defense attorney protects against negative consequences and maximizes your chances of a positive outcome.
Protect yourself, your family, and your future. Get help as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or through our online contact form.
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What Are Juvenile Crimes in Windsor, MO?
If you’re accused of a crime before turning 18 in Windsor, MO, that is a juvenile crime. After turning 18, in Missouri, an alleged offender is typically tried in adult court.
That said, Missouri uses different ages to determine adulthood in different 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 over 18, but younger than 21 (these accusations are handled in adult court, though).
Juvenile Criminal Charges a Windsor, MO, Defense Lawyer Can Help Fight
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 Windsor, 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 often even tougher to fight than an of-age DWI. Maximum penalties include 6 months in jail, $500 in fines, and the suspension or loss of your driver’s license.
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 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 offenses often differ greatly from one another, due to the number of different substances and related offenses. 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: 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 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: In Missouri, there is no dedicated law regarding minors sexting, so these actions fall under child pornography laws. 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 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’re wondering about the details of these criminal charges, read our ultimate guide to juvenile crimes in Missouri.
How a Windsor, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Can Help
Your Windsor, 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:
- An Explanation of 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 treat you like more than a case number.
- 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.
- Enforcement of Your Rights: Juvenile rights matter, 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.
Why Do Juveniles Break the Law?
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.
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. Additionally, people with mental health challenges can struggle to obey the law, and may try to self-medicate as a result.
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 highlight environmental factors and leverage them to find diversion options.
Juvenile Justice Process vs. Adult Justice Process in Windsor, MO
There are many parallels between the adult and juvenile justice process in Windsor, 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 | After an arrest, the alleged offender is taken to jail. | Law enforcement must notify parents/legal guardians and often 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. | 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, typically in felony cases where the youth is at least 12 years old. If you’re worried about going to adult court, your Windsor, 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 …
Impact of a Juvenile Crime Conviction in Windsor, MO
A juvenile crime conviction can have life-lasting collateral consequences. When you don’t work with a seasoned defense attorney, you’re up against:
- Jailtime and fines
- Trouble at school
- Family relationship challenges
- Denial of public assistance for families in need
- A negative reputation that doesn’t go away
Your Windsor, MO, juvenile crimes lawyer will fight to protect you against all of this. Working with the right attorney does more than protect your freedom; it also protects your future.
Missouri Juvenile Justice Resources
Below are some resources available to assist juveniles and parents who find themselves involved in the Windsor, 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)
How to Pick a Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in Windsor, MO
There are many lawyers in Windsor, MO, who defend juveniles, but not all of them are equal. When picking out the right attorney for your case, keep an eye out for the below 5 qualities:
- Prior experience in juvenile court
- Experience with the specific charges in the accusation
- Care for your wellbeing, rather than a callous attitude
- A support team to help with investigation, communication, and logistics
- Defense that is built to be trial-ready
Combs Waterkotte brings all of this to your case, in addition to always-available phone lines, insights from former prosecutors, and connections in courthouses across Missouri.
The Right Windsor, MO, Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Makes All the Difference. Speak With an Attorney Now
You need help to secure a path forward. 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, avoid jail if possible, and won’t stop fighting until you get the justice you deserve.
To review your charges with a juvenile crimes lawyer in Windsor, MO, as soon as possible, call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.
