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 talented, experienced, and empathetic Ballwin, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes of the utmost importance.

The juvenile defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing individuals involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Ballwin and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Our legal team plays a crucial role in ensuring that our young clients in Ballwin, MO and their families receive equitable treatment and the best chance for rehabilitation. We recognize that good people find themselves in challenging situations, and we are dedicated to doing everything within our power to provide assistance.

Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-strings-attached case review. Our Ballwin, MO lawyers are committed to providing expert legal advice and determining the most appropriate course of action for your situation.

Why You Need a Ballwin, MO Juvenile Defense Lawyer

In [wdac-state-long], the Juvenile Division of the Circuit Court exclusively handles juvenile crimes, along with cases of abuse, neglect, adoptions, and other things. This is extremely beneficial to you because of the fact that when a minor is accused of a crime in Ballwin or anywhere else in [wdac-state-long] the Juvenile Division provides rehabilitative measures rather than punishment. However, this also means that you should have a knowledgeable Ballwin, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.

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. Give us a call right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

Who is a Juvenile or an Adult Under [wdac-state-long] 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, such as:

• For driving purposes, there is a range between 15 ½ and 18 depending on the type of driver’s license.
• To consume or possess alcoholic beverages, an individual must be 21 years of age.
• In order to purchase 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 [wdac-state-long]?

The potential resolutions for a juvenile facing criminal accusations depend on factors such as the gravity of the offense, the juvenile’s prior legal history, and the specific details of the case. These possible outcomes underscore the importance of having a dedicated Ballwin, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating 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.

Probationary Period

Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Ballwin and across [wdac-state-long]. 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, either through financial payments or community service.

Juvenile Detention

In instances of severe or repeated offenses, the court may order juvenile confinement or out-of-home placement in the Ballwin, MO area. This often happens when rehabilitation within the community is deemed unfeasible.

Expungement

Some juvenile records may be expunged or sealed upon reaching a certain age, successfully completing required programs, or maintaining a clean record for a specified duration. However, some offenses may persist on the record even after reaching adulthood. It is vital to consult with a Combs Waterkotte juvenile defense lawyer in Ballwin, MO to understand the jurisdiction-specific guidelines. Our staff is available 24/7. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

It is crucial to realize that the juvenile justice systems in Ballwin and [wdac-state-long] are crafted with a primary focus on the well-being of the juvenile, prioritizing rehabilitation and treatment. The final resolution will be contingent upon the distinct situations of each case and the discretion of the court.

What Are the Different Types of Juvenile Crimes in Ballwin and Throughout [wdac-state-long]?

Juvenile offenses in Ballwin, MO encompass a spectrum of offenses and can vary in severity, ranging from nonviolent to violent acts. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Ballwin and throughout [wdac-state-long] include:

• Truancy: Under 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. While homeschooling is an alternative, parents must demonstrate that the child receives 1000 hours of instruction.
• Curfew Violations: Being in public during hours when a minor is required to be at home. These hours can vary by jurisdiction, so it is crucial to have an experienced juvenile defense lawyer on your side.
• Shoplifting and Theft/Burglary: Thankfully, the [wdac-state-long] courts don’t feel children have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, including shoplifting and theft, are handled by the Juvenile Division. The approach is geared toward correcting juvenile behavior, frequently involving release to parents, restitution, probation, diversionary programs, counseling, or in more severe cases, detention or home confinement.
• Vandalism: Cases of juvenile vandalism are also heard by the Juvenile Division. This charge must be proven to have been purposeful and, similar to shoplifting, there are a variety of penalties, including restitution and fines, probation, or even detention in serious cases.
• Trespassing: Juvenile trespassing is typically driven by different intentions than adult trespassing. Consequently, the courts see this and have far different penalties for juveniles – including probation, diversion programs, fines, or, in the most severe cases, detention.
• Traffic Violations: Juvenile traffic violations have a unique aspect – the age at which a juvenile is considered an adult for driving purposes is 15 ½. The Juvenile Division can’t handle cases beyond that age. However, if a traffic violation is serious enough to warrant jail time, such as a juvenile DWI charge, the traffic court judge may request the juvenile court to supersede.
• Simple Assault: Due to recent law changes, a juvenile may now be charged with simple assault for injuring another person or for seriously threatening to harm another person. Classified as assault in the fourth degree under RSMo. § 565.056, this is a misdemeanor and could result in jail time, community service, restitution, probation, counseling, or a fine.
• Arson: The penalties for juvenile arson vary wildly depending on the circumstances. In minor cases, juveniles might be required to pay restitution or perform community service and undergo counseling, but it can certainly become a major charge.
• 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 knowledgeable 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 several forms of law, such as:

• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer
• Sexual Misconduct Lawyer
• Traffic Ticket Lawyer
• Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
• Speeding Ticket Lawyer

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 via our online contact form.

According to 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. Factors considered by the judge include the gravity of the charges, whether the community needs to be protected from you, the presence of force or violence in the crime, harm inflicted on others, whether you have a record of breaking the law, and your age.

If you are tried as an adult, our [wdac-city] criminal defense attorneys will do everything in their power to prove your innocence. In the event of a guilty verdict, various outcomes might 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 a worst-case scenario, you may be immediately sent to an adult prison.

Reach Out To a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Ballwin, MO Today at Combs Waterkotte

Securing the services of an adept juvenile defense lawyer is crucial for ensuring a fair and equitable resolution for young individuals navigating the legal system in Ballwin or elsewhere in [wdac-state-long]. With knowledgeable legal representation, Ballwin, MO juveniles stand a better chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.

We recognize the pressures and challenges of being a kid these days, and we use this knowledge for your benefit. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, regardless of the severity of their charges. Give us a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us for a free, no-obligation consultation.