Juvenile Defense Lawyer Fayette, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Fayette, 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 talented, experienced, and empathetic Fayette, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes paramount.

The legal professionals at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing individuals involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Fayette and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Our legal team plays a crucial role in making sure that our young clients in Fayette, MO and their families receive fair treatment and are provided with the best opportunities for rehabilitation. We realize that good people can find themselves in challenging 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 consultation. Our Fayette, 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 Fayette, 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 Fayette or anywhere else in [wdac-state-long]. The Juvenile Division focuses on rehabilitative measures instead of punitive measures, emphasizing the importance of proper guidance and support for minors. However, navigating the juvenile court system requires the expertise of an experienced Fayette, MO defense attorney familiar with its intricacies.

The Combs Waterkotte Fayette, 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. 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?

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.
An individual must be 18 to purchase a long gun, or 21 for a handgun.

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

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

Don’t leave the outcome to chance in Fayette, MO; call 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 Fayette, MO, or educational components, provide alternatives to traditional legal pathways.

Probationary Period

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

Juvenile Detention

In cases of major or repeated offenses, the court may order juvenile confinement or placement outside of the home in the Fayette, MO area. This frequently occurs when rehabilitation within the community is deemed unfeasible.

Expungement

Certain 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 defined period. However, some offenses may persist on the record even after reaching adulthood. It is vital to consult with a Combs Waterkotte juvenile defense lawyer in Fayette, MO to understand the jurisdiction-specific guidelines. Our team is available 24/7. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

It is crucial to realize that the Fayette 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 circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.

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

Juvenile offenses in Fayette, MO encompass a spectrum of offenses and can vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent acts. Common types of juvenile crimes in Fayette 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. Homeschooling is an option, but parents must prove the child is getting 1000 hours of instruction.
Curfew Violations: 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 don’t feel children 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: 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, similar to shoplifting, there are a variety of penalties, including restitution and fines, probation, or even detention in serious 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 over that age. Yet, if a traffic violation is severe enough to warrant jail time, such as a juvenile DWI charge, the traffic court judge will likely request the juvenile court to supersede.
Assault: Due to recent law changes, a juvenile may now be charged with simple assault for injuring another person or for seriously threatening to harm another person. Referred to as assault in the fourth degree according to 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 circumstances. In less severe instances, juveniles could be required to pay restitution or perform community service and undergo counseling, but it can certainly become a major charge.
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.

Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Fayette, MO | Combs Waterkotte

Our experienced legal team makes sure that the citizens of Fayette, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Fayette, MO, our lawyers are experienced in a variety of types of cases, such as:

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

If you are facing serious charges as a juvenile, it is important to consult with a defense attorney in Fayette, 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 based on the charges, your record, and after a hearing. The judge will consider 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 attorneys will do everything in their power to prove your innocence. However, if you are found guilty, there are a variety of 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.

Reach Out To a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Fayette, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

Securing the services of an adept juvenile defense lawyer is paramount to securing a fair and just resolution for minors entangled in the legal system in Fayette or elsewhere in [wdac-state-long]. With the right legal representation, Fayette, MO juveniles can have a fighting chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.

We understand the unique challenges and pressures faced by today’s youth, 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 reach out to us for a free, commitment-free consultation.

Fayette, MO