Juvenile Defense Lawyer Branson, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Branson, MO. Facing legal hurdles and difficulties as a juvenile can be a daunting, overwhelming experience both for you and your family. If you are facing charges, regardless of the severity, having a skilled, experienced, and compassionate Branson, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes paramount.

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

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

Why You Need a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Branson, MO

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

The Combs Waterkotte Branson, 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 to consider. Call us 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. The age differs for various other circumstances under [wdac-state-long] law, such as:

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 purchase a long gun, an individual must be 18; for a handgun, it’s 21.

Juvenile Defense Lawyer Branson, MO | Branson, MO Criminal Defense Law Firm | Combs Waterkotte

What Are Some Possible Outcomes of a Juvenile Accused of a Crime in Branson or Elsewhere Throughout [wdac-state-long]?

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 Branson, MO juvenile defense attorney in your corner, fighting for your rights and future.

Do not leave the outcome to chance in Branson, MO; reach out to the attorneys at Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online. Here are some of the potential outcomes:

Diversion Programs

Juveniles may qualify for alternative programs aimed at diverting them from formal court proceedings. These initiatives, like counseling, community service opportunities in Branson, MO, or educational components, provide alternatives to traditional legal pathways.

Probationary Period

This is a common outcome for juvenile offenders in Branson and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Probation could involve regular check-ins with a probation officer, adherence to specific conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our skilled Branson, MO legal staff is proficient in championing reasonable probation conditions, offering valuable guidance and assistance throughout the probationary period.

Restitution

Some Branson, MO cases may involve juvenile offenders being obligated to provide restitution to the victim, whether through financial payments or community service.

Juvenile Detention

In cases of severe or repeated offenses, the court may mandate juvenile confinement or placement outside of the home in the Branson, MO area. This decision is often made when community-based rehabilitation appears impractical.

Record Expungement

Some juvenile records may be expunged or sealed after the juvenile reaches a certain age, completes the required program, or stays out of trouble for a specified 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 Branson, MO for guidance on the specific guidelines per jurisdiction. Our team is available 24/7. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

It is crucial to note that the juvenile justice systems in Branson and [wdac-state-long] are crafted with a main focus on the well-being of the juvenile, prioritizing rehabilitation and treatment. The specific outcome will be contingent upon the distinct circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.

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

Juvenile offenses in Branson, MO can encompass a spectrum of activities and can vary in severity, ranging from nonviolent to violent acts. Common types of juvenile crimes in Branson 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, highlighting the importance of having an experienced juvenile defense lawyer by your side.
Shoplifting and Theft/Burglary: Fortunately, the [wdac-state-long] courts don’t feel children have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, like 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: Cases of juvenile vandalism are also heard by the Juvenile Division. This charge must be proven to have been purposeful and, like shoplifting, there are a range 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 see this and have far different penalties for juveniles – including probation, diversion programs, fines, or, in the most serious 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 cannot take any cases over 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. Referred to as assault in the fourth degree in RSMo. § 565.056, this is a misdemeanor and could result in jail time, community service, restitution, probation, counseling, or a fine.
Arson: Penalties for juvenile arson cases can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances. In minor cases, juveniles could 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: Unfortunately, cases of juveniles facing charges for unlawful possession of a firearm are not uncommon. Potential penalties for this offense range from fines to more severe consequences like detention or even incarcertation.

Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Branson, MO | Combs Waterkotte

Our experienced legal team ensures that the residents of Branson, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Branson, MO, our lawyers are experienced in several forms of law, including:

Who Decides if a Juvenile Can Be Tried as an Adult in Branson, MO?

If you are facing serious charges as a juvenile, it is vital to consult with a defense attorney in Branson, MO promptly. The legal team at Combs Waterkotte offers free consultations, accessible through (314) 900-HELP or via our online contact form.

Under RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge decides whether you will be tried as an adult after reading the charges, your record, and following a hearing. Factors considered by the judge include 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 [wdac-city] criminal defense lawyers will do everything in their power to prove your innocence. However, if you are found guilty, there are several things that could occur. 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 situation, you may be immediately sent to an adult prison.

Contact a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Branson, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is paramount to securing a fair and equitable outcome for juveniles entangled in the Branson or [wdac-state-long] legal system. With knowledgeable legal representation, Branson, MO juveniles stand a better chance at rehabilitation and a promising future.

We understand the unique challenges and pressures faced by today’s youth, and we leverage this understanding for your benefit. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, regardless of the severity of their charges. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us for a free, no-obligation case review.

Branson, MO