Juvenile Defense Lawyer Eureka, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Eureka, 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 skilled, experienced, and empathetic Eureka, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes of the utmost importance.

The juvenile defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing juveniles involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Eureka and throughout Missouri. Our legal team plays a vital role in ensuring that our young clients in Eureka, MO and their families receive equitable treatment and the best chance for rehabilitation. We understand that good people find themselves in bad 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 Eureka, 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 Eureka, MO Juvenile Defense Lawyer

In Missouri, 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 individuals facing juvenile charges in Eureka or anywhere else in Missouri. The Juvenile Division focuses on rehabilitative measures instead of punitive measures, emphasizing the importance of proper guidance and support for young individuals. However, this also means that you should have a knowledgeable Eureka, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.

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

Who is a Juvenile or an Adult Under Missouri 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 Missouri 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.

What Are Some Possible Outcomes of a Juvenile Accused of a Crime in Eureka or Elsewhere Throughout Missouri?

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 Eureka, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating for your rights and future.

Don’t leave it to chance in Eureka, 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 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 Eureka, MO, or educational components, provide alternatives to traditional legal pathways.

Probationary Period

Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Eureka and across Missouri. It typically involves routine check-ins with a probation officer, compliance with specified conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our experienced Eureka, 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 Eureka, MO, juvenile offenders may be required to make restitution to the victim(s), whether via financial payments or community service.

Juvenile Detention

In instances of severe or repeated offenses, the court may order juvenile detention or placement outside of the home in the Eureka, MO area. This frequently occurs when rehabilitation within the community is deemed unfeasible.

Expungement

Some juvenile records may be expunged or sealed upon reaching a specific age, successfully completing required programs, or maintaining a clean record for a defined 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 Eureka, MO for guidance on the specific guidelines per jurisdiction. 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 Eureka and Missouri juvenile justice systems are designed to focus on the best interests of the juvenile, emphasizing rehabilitation and treatment. The specific outcome will depend on the unique situations of each case and the discretion of the court.

What Are the Different Types of Juvenile Crimes in Eureka and Throughout Missouri?

Juvenile crimes in Eureka, MO can encompass a spectrum of offenses that vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent offenses. Common types of juvenile crimes in Eureka and throughout Missouri 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. 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, highlighting the importance of having an experienced juvenile defense lawyer on your side.
• Shoplifting and Theft/Burglary: Fortunately, the Missouri courts recognize that children may not 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, similar to shoplifting, there are a range of penalties, including restitution and fines, probation, or even detention in severe cases.
• Trespassing: Juvenile trespassing is typically 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 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 causing injury to another individual or making serious threats. Classified 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 fines.
• Arson: Penalties for juvenile arson cases can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances. In minor cases, juveniles might be required to fulfill 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.

Our knowledgeable legal team ensures that the citizens of Eureka, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Eureka, MO, our attorneys are experienced in several types of cases, such as:

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

If you are facing serious charges as a juvenile, it is important to consult with a defense attorney in Eureka, MO promptly. The legal team at Combs Waterkotte offers free case reviews, 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 based on the charges, your record, and following a hearing. The judge will consider 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 Eureka 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 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 Eureka, MO Right Now at Combs Waterkotte

Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is crucial for ensuring a fair and equitable outcome for minors entangled in the Eureka or Missouri legal system. With the right legal representation, juveniles in Eureka, MO can have a fighting chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.

We recognize the unique challenges and pressures faced by today’s youth, and we leverage this understanding to your advantage. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, no matter the severity of their charges. Give us a call right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us for a free, no-strings-attached consultation.