Juvenile Defense Lawyer Cape Girardeau County, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Cape Girardeau County, MO. Navigating the complexities of the legal system as a juvenile can be an overwhelming experience for both you and your family. If you are facing charges, regardless of their severity, it’s crucial to have a skilled, experienced, and compassionate Cape Girardeau County, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side.

The legal professionals at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing minors involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Cape Girardeau County and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Our legal team plays a crucial role in making sure that our young clients in Cape Girardeau County, MO and their families receive equitable treatment and the best opportunities for rehabilitation. We realize that good people can find themselves in difficult situations, and we will do whatever it takes to help.

Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-obligation case review. Our Cape Girardeau County, 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.

Why You Need a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Cape Girardeau County, MO

In [wdac-state-long], the Juvenile Division of the Circuit Court exclusively handles juvenile crimes, as well as 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 Cape Girardeau County or anywhere else in [wdac-state-long] the Juvenile Division provides rehabilitative measures rather than punishment. However, navigating the juvenile court system requires the expertise of an experienced Cape Girardeau County, MO defense attorney familiar with its intricacies.

The Combs Waterkotte Cape Girardeau County, MO juvenile defense lawyer team boasts extensive experience in defending young clients. We can work with the court to get the best possible decision on your behalf, as well as provide things such as character statements and mitigating factors for the judge’s consideration. 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. 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 consume or possess alcoholic beverages, an individual must be 21 years of age.
• An individual must be 18 to buy a long gun, or 21 for a handgun.

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

The potential resolutions for a juvenile facing criminal accusations depend on factors like 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 Cape Girardeau County, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating for your rights and future.

Do not leave it to chance in Cape Girardeau County, MO; call the attorneys at Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online. Here are some of the potential scenarios:

Diversion Programs

Juveniles may be eligible for diversion programs, which are alternative measures designed to divert them away from formal court proceedings. These programs often include counseling, community service in Cape Girardeau County, MO, or educational components.

Probation

Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Cape Girardeau County 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 Cape Girardeau County, MO legal team excels in advocating for reasonable probation terms and offering invaluable support and guidance throughout the probationary period.

Restitution

In some cases in Cape Girardeau County, MO, juvenile offenders may be required to make restitution to the victim(s), either via financial payments or community service.

Juvenile Detention

In instances of serious or repeated offenses, the court may mandate juvenile confinement or out-of-home placement in the Cape Girardeau County, MO area. This frequently happens when rehabilitation within the community is deemed unfeasible.

Record Expungement

Certain juvenile records may be expunged or sealed upon reaching a certain age, successfully finishing required programs, or maintaining a clean record for a specified duration. 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 Cape Girardeau County, MO for guidance on the specific guidelines per jurisdiction. Our team is available 24/7. Call us right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

It is important to recognize that the juvenile justice systems in Cape Girardeau County and [wdac-state-long] are crafted with a primary concentration centered on the well-being of the juvenile, prioritizing rehabilitation and treatment. The specific outcome 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 Cape Girardeau County and Throughout [wdac-state-long]?

Juvenile crimes in Cape Girardeau County, MO encompass a range of offenses that vary in severity, ranging from nonviolent to violent offenses. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Cape Girardeau County and throughout [wdac-state-long] include:

• Truancy: According to Revised Statutes of Missouri § 167.031, also known as the Compulsory Attendance Law, parents are obligated to make sure their 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: 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 [wdac-state-long] courts recognize that children may not have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, such as shoplifting and theft, are handled by the Juvenile Division. The approach is geared toward correcting juvenile behavior, often 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 severe cases.
• Trespassing: Juvenile trespassing is commonally 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 serious 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. Yet, if a traffic violation is serious enough to warrant jail time, such as a juvenile DWI charge, the traffic court judge will likely request the juvenile court to supersede.
• Simple Assault: Recent legislative changes mean that a juvenile may now face charges of simple assault for injuring another person or for seriously threatening to harm another person. Referred to as assault in the fourth degree under RSMo. § 565.056, this offense is categorized as a misdemeanor, potentially leading to consequences like jail time, community service, restitution, probation, counseling, or a fine.
• Arson: The penalties for juvenile arson vary wildly based 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.
• Unlawful 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 makes sure that the residents of Cape Girardeau County, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Cape Girardeau County, MO, our attorneys are experienced in several types of cases, including:

• Crime Defense Lawyers
• 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 Cape Girardeau County, MO?

If you have been charged with a serious crime as a juvenile, you need to have a conversation with a defense attorney in Cape Girardeau County, MO as soon as possible. The Combs Waterkotte legal team is available for free consultations at (314) 900-HELP or by contacting us online.

According to RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge decides whether you will be tried as an adult based on the charges, your record, and following a hearing. Factors considered by the judge include the gravity of the charges, the need to protect the community, the presence of force or violence in the crime, whether you hurt another individual, 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 vigorously work to establish your innocence. However, if you are found guilty, there are a variety of things that could happen. 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 Cape Girardeau County, MO Right Now at Combs Waterkotte

Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is vital for ensuring a fair and equitable resolution for juveniles entangled in the legal system in Cape Girardeau County or elsewhere in [wdac-state-long]. With the right legal representation, juveniles in Cape Girardeau County, MO can have a fighting chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.

We understand the pressures and challenges of being a kid these days, and we leverage this understanding for your benefit. At Combs Waterkotte, we ardently advocate for our clients, irrespective of the severity of their charges. Call us immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us for a free, commitment-free consultation.