Juvenile Defense Lawyer Clark County, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Clark County, 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, knowledgeable, and empathetic Clark County, 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 Clark County and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Our legal team plays a crucial role in making sure that our young clients in Clark County, MO and their families receive equitable treatment and the best opportunities 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 as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-obligation case review. Our Clark 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 Clark County, MO Juvenile Defense Lawyer

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 due to the fact that when a juvenile is accused of a crime in Clark County 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 seasoned Clark County, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.

The Combs Waterkotte Clark 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 to consider. Give us a call right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

Who is a Juvenile or an Adult Under [wdac-state-long] Law?

In accordance with the juvenile code, an adult is defined as an individual aged 18 years or older, whereas a child refers to anyone under the age of 18. The age differs for various other circumstances under [wdac-state-long] law, 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.

Juvenile Defense Lawyer Clark County, MO | Clark County, MO Criminal Defense Law Firm | Combs Waterkotte

What Are Some Possible Outcomes of a Juvenile Accused of a Crime in Clark County 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 Clark County, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating for your rights and future.

Do not leave the outcome to chance in Clark County, MO; call the lawyers 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, such as counseling, community service opportunities in Clark County, MO, or educational components, provide alternatives to traditional legal pathways.

Probationary Period

This is a common outcome for juvenile offenders in Clark County 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 Clark County, MO legal staff is proficient in championing reasonable probation conditions, offering valuable guidance and assistance throughout the probationary period.

Restitution

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

Juvenile Detention

In cases of severe or repeated offenses, the court may mandate juvenile detention or placement outside of the home in the Clark County, MO area. This often occurs when rehabilitation within the community is deemed unfeasible.

Expungement

Certain juvenile records may be expunged or sealed upon reaching a specific age, successfully finishing 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 crucial to consult with a Combs Waterkotte juvenile defense lawyer in Clark County, MO to understand the jurisdiction-specific guidelines. Our team is available 24/7. Call us right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

It is crucial to note that the Clark County and [wdac-state-long] juvenile justice systems are designed to focus on the best interests of the juvenile, emphasizing 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 Clark County and Throughout [wdac-state-long]?

Juvenile offenses in Clark County, MO can encompass a range of activities and can vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent acts. Common types of juvenile crimes in Clark County 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 vary by jurisdiction, highlighting the importance of having an experienced juvenile defense lawyer on 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, fall under the purview of 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, similar to shoplifting, there are a range 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, and fortunately for you, the courts apply 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 causing injury to another individual or making serious threats. 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 fines.
Arson: The penalties for juvenile arson vary wildly based 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: 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 Clark County, MO | Combs Waterkotte

Our experienced legal team makes sure that the citizens of Clark County, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Clark County, MO, our attorneys are experienced in several forms of law, including:

Who Decides if a Juvenile Can Be Tried as an Adult in Clark 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 Clark County, MO as soon as possible. The Combs Waterkotte legal team is available for free consultations at (314) 900-HELP or by reaching out to us online.

Under RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge decides whether you will be tried as an adult based on the charges, looking at your record, and after a hearing. Factors considered by the judge include the seriousness of the charges, the need to protect the community, whether the crime involved force or violence, whether you hurt another individual, your history of 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. However, if you are found guilty, there are several things that could happen. You might receive probation for a second chance, spend time in a detention facility followed by transfer to an adult prison, or, in the worst-case scenario, face immediate placement in an adult prison.

Connect With a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Clark County, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is paramount to securing a fair and equitable outcome for young individuals entangled in the legal system in Clark County or elsewhere in [wdac-state-long]. With knowledgeable legal representation, juveniles in Clark County, MO can have a fighting chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.

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

Clark County, MO