Juvenile Defense Lawyer Ballwin, MO
Juvenile defense lawyer in Ballwin, MO. Facing legal hurdles and challenges as a juvenile can be a daunting, overwhelming experience both for you and your family. If you are facing charges, no matter the severity, having a skilled, experienced, and empathetic Ballwin, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes of the utmost importance.
The legal professionals at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing juveniles involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Ballwin and throughout Missouri. Our legal team plays a crucial role in making sure that our young clients in Ballwin, MO and their families receive equitable treatment and the best opportunities for rehabilitation. We understand that good people can find themselves in difficult situations, and we will do whatever it takes to help.
Call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our Ballwin, MO attorneys will go over the specifics of your case with you and your family and provide legal guidance and the best course of action.
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 …
Why You Need a Ballwin, MO Juvenile Defense Lawyer
In Missouri, the Juvenile Division of the Circuit Court exclusively handles juvenile crimes, as well as cases of abuse, neglect, adoptions, and other things. This is extremely beneficial to you because of the fact that when a juvenile is accused of a crime in Ballwin or anywhere else in Missouri the Juvenile Division provides rehabilitative measures instead of punishment. However, navigating the juvenile court system requires the expertise of an experienced Ballwin, MO defense attorney familiar with its intricacies.
The Combs Waterkotte Ballwin, MO juvenile defense lawyer team has an abundance of experience in defending young clients. We collaborate with the court to secure the most favorable outcome for you and provide crucial elements like character statements and mitigating factors for the judge’s consideration. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Who is a Juvenile or an Adult Under Missouri Law?
For purposes of the juvenile code, an adult is an individual 18 years of age or older while a child is anyone under 18. It’s crucial to note that age distinctions may vary for different situations under the laws of, including:
- For driving purposes, there is a range between 15 ½ and 18 depending on the type of driver’s license.
- To possess or consume alcoholic beverages, an individual must be 21 years of age.
- In order to buy a long gun, an individual must be 18; for a handgun, it’s 21.
What Are Some Possible Outcomes of a Juvenile Accused of a Crime in Ballwin or Elsewhere Throughout Missouri?
The possible outcomes for a juvenile accused of a crime can vary based on the severity of the offense, the juvenile’s prior record, and the specific circumstances of the case. All of these possibilities and what-ifs are exactly why you need a strong Ballwin, MO juvenile defense attorney in your corner, fighting for your rights and future.
Do not leave it to chance in Ballwin, MO; reach out to the lawyers at Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online. Here are some of the potential scenarios:
Diversion Programs
Juveniles may qualify for alternative programs aimed at diverting them from formal court proceedings. These initiatives, such as counseling, community service opportunities in Ballwin, MO, or educational components, provide alternatives to traditional legal pathways.
Probation
Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Ballwin and across Missouri. It typically involves routine check-ins with a probation officer, compliance with specified conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our experienced Ballwin, MO legal team excels in advocating for reasonable probation terms and offering invaluable support and guidance throughout the probationary period.
Restitution
Some Ballwin, MO cases may involve juvenile offenders being obligated to provide restitution to the victim, whether through financial payments or community service.
Juvenile Detention
In instances of major or repeated offenses, the court may order juvenile detention or out-of-home placement in the Ballwin, MO area. This decision is often made when community-based rehabilitation seems impractical.
Expungement
Some juvenile records may be expunged or sealed after the juvenile reaches a specific age, completes the required program, or stays out of trouble for a defined period. In some cases though, certain offenses can remain on your record even after you turn 18. It is vital to consult with a Combs Waterkotte juvenile defense lawyer in Ballwin, MO for guidance on the specific guidelines per jurisdiction. Our staff is available 24/7. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
It is crucial to note that the juvenile justice systems in Ballwin and Missouri are crafted with a main focus on the well-being of the juvenile, prioritizing rehabilitation and treatment. The specific outcome will depend on the distinct circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.
What Are the Different Types of Juvenile Crimes in Ballwin and Throughout Missouri?
Juvenile offenses in Ballwin, MO encompass a spectrum of activities and can vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent offenses. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Ballwin and throughout Missouri include:
- Truancy: According to Revised Statutes of Missouri § 167.031, also known as the Compulsory Attendance Law, parents must ensure that a child is enrolled in and regularly attends school. Homeschooling is an option, but parents must prove the child is getting 1000 hours of instruction.
- Curfew Violations: This involves being in public during hours when a minor is required to be at home. These vary by jurisdiction, so it is crucial to have an experienced juvenile defense lawyer by your side.
- Shoplifting and Theft/Burglary: Thankfully, the Missouri courts don’t feel children have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, such as shoplifting and theft, are handled by the Juvenile Division, which tends to course-correct juveniles who steal by releasing them to their parents or possibly in more serious cases ordering restitution, probation, a diversionary program, counseling, or even detention or home confinement.
- Vandalism: If a juvenile is charged with vandalism, their case is also heard by the Juvenile Division. This charge must be proven to have been purposeful and, like shoplifting, there are a variety of penalties, including restitution and fines, probation, or even detention in serious cases.
- Trespassing: In most cases, juvenile trespassing is done with far different intentions than adult trespassing. Consequently, and fortunately for you, the courts apply different penalties for juveniles – including probation, diversion programs, fines, or, in the most severe cases, detention.
- Traffic Violations: Juvenile traffic violations are unique in that, as explained above, a juvenile becomes an adult for driving purposes at 15 ½. The Juvenile Division can’t take any cases beyond that age, yet if the traffic violation is severe enough to warrant jail time a juvenile DWI charge for example, the traffic court judge will likely request the juvenile court to supersede.
- Simple Assault: Due to recent law changes, a juvenile may now be charged with simple assault for causing injury to another individual or making serious threats. Classified as assault in the fourth degree according to RSMo. § 565.056, this is a misdemeanor and could result in jail time, community service, restitution, probation, counseling, or fines.
- Arson: Penalties for juvenile arson cases can vary widely based on the circumstances. In minor cases, juveniles might be required to pay restitution or perform community service and undergo counseling. However, arson charges can quickly escalate to more serious consequences depending on the gravity of the offense.
- Gun Possession: This is an unfortunately common charge and the possible penalties for unlawful possession could be as minor as a fine or as major as jail time.
Our skilled legal team ensures that the citizens of Ballwin, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Ballwin, MO, our attorneys are experienced in a variety of forms of law, such as:
Who Decides if a Juvenile Can Be Tried as an Adult in Ballwin, MO?
If you are facing serious charges as a juvenile, it is vital to consult with a defense attorney in Ballwin, MO promptly. The legal team at Combs Waterkotte offers free consultations, accessible through (314) 900-HELP or through our online contact form.
Under RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge determines whether you will be tried as an adult based on the charges, looking at your record, and following a hearing. The judge will consider the seriousness of the charges, whether the community needs to be protected from you, whether the crime involved force or violence, harm inflicted on others, your history of of breaking the law, and your age.
If you are tried as an adult, our Ballwin criminal defense attorneys will vigorously work to establish your innocence. In the event of a guilty verdict, a variety of outcomes may unfold. You could be placed on probation and given a second chance. You may spend some time in a detention facility and then later be sent to an adult prison. Or, in the worst-case scenario, you may be immediately sent to an adult prison.
Connect With a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Ballwin, MO Today at Combs Waterkotte
Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is vital for ensuring a fair and just outcome for minors navigating the legal system in Ballwin or elsewhere in Missouri. With knowledgeable legal representation, juveniles in Ballwin, MO can have a fighting chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.
We understand the unique challenges and pressures faced by today’s youth, and we use this knowledge to your advantage. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, no matter the severity of their charges. Give us a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us for a free, no-strings-attached consultation.
