Juvenile Defense Lawyer Columbia, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Columbia, 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 critical to have a skilled, experienced, and compassionate Columbia, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side.

The juvenile defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing individuals involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Columbia and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Our legal team plays a crucial role in making sure that our young clients in Columbia, MO and their families receive equitable treatment and the best chance for rehabilitation. We recognize that good people can find themselves in bad 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 consultation. Our Columbia, 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 Columbia, MO

In [wdac-state-long], the Juvenile Division of the Circuit Court exclusively handles cases involving juvenile crimes, as well as matters related to abuse, neglect, adoptions, and more. This unique legal framework is especially advantageous for people facing juvenile charges in Columbia or anywhere else in [wdac-state-long]. The Juvenile Division focuses on rehabilitative measures rather than punitive measures, emphasizing the importance of proper guidance and support for minors. However, navigating the juvenile court system requires the expertise of an experienced Columbia, MO defense attorney familiar with its intricacies.

The Combs Waterkotte Columbia, MO juvenile defense lawyer team boasts extensive 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 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. It’s crucial to note that age distinctions may vary for different circumstances 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.
• 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 Columbia 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 Columbia, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating for your rights and future.

Don’t leave it to chance in Columbia, 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 frequently include counseling, community service in Columbia, MO, or educational components.

Probationary Period

Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Columbia 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 Columbia, 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 Columbia, MO, juvenile offenders may be required to make restitution to the victim(s), whether through financial payments or community service.

Juvenile Detention

In instances of serious or repeated offenses, the court may mandate juvenile confinement or placement outside of the home in the Columbia, MO area. This decision is frequently made when community-based rehabilitation appears impractical.

Record Expungement

Certain juvenile records may be expunged or sealed after the juvenile reaches a certain age, finishes the required program, or stays out of trouble for a specified period. 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 Columbia, MO to understand the jurisdiction-specific guidelines. Our staff is available 24/7. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

It is important to realize that the Columbia and [wdac-state-long] juvenile justice systems are designed to focus on the best interests of the juvenile, emphasizing rehabilitation and treatment. The final resolution will be contingent upon the unique situations of each case and the discretion of the court.

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

Juvenile crimes in Columbia, MO can encompass a range of activities that vary in severity, ranging from nonviolent to violent acts. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Columbia 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. 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 hours can 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 don’t feel children have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, like 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: 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 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, 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 over 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.
• 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. 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 less severe instances, 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.
• 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 Columbia, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. Along with juvenile defense in Columbia, MO, our lawyers are experienced in a variety of forms of law, including:

• 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 Columbia, MO?

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

Under RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge decides whether you will be tried as an adult based on the charges, your record, and after 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, 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. Yet, if you are found guilty, there are several things that could occur. 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 Columbia, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

Securing the services of an adept juvenile defense lawyer is vital for ensuring a fair and just resolution for juveniles navigating the legal system in Columbia or elsewhere in [wdac-state-long]. With adept legal representation, juveniles in Columbia, MO can have a fighting chance at rehabilitation and a promising future.

We comprehend the pressures and challenges faced by today’s youth, and we leverage this understanding to your advantage. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, regardless of the severity of their charges. Give us a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us for a free, commitment-free consultation.