Juvenile Defense Lawyer Lee’s Summit, MO
Juvenile defense lawyer in Lee’s Summit, MO. Navigating the complexities of the legal system as a juvenile can be a daunting experience for both you and your family. If you’re facing charges, regardless of their severity, it’s critical to have a skilled, experienced, and empathetic Lee’s Summit, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side.
The juvenile defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing juveniles involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Lee’s Summit and throughout Missouri. Our legal team plays a vital role in making sure that our young clients in Lee’s Summit, MO and their families receive equitable treatment and the best opportunities for rehabilitation. We recognize that good people find themselves in bad 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-strings-attached case review. Our Lee’s Summit, 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 Lee’s Summit, MO
In Missouri, the Juvenile Division of the Circuit Court exclusively handles juvenile crimes, along with cases of abuse, neglect, adoptions, and other things. This is extremely beneficial to you due to the fact that when a juvenile is accused of a crime in Lee’s Summit or anywhere else in Missouri the Juvenile Division provides rehabilitative measures instead of punishment. However, this also means that you should have a knowledgeable Lee’s Summit, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.
The Combs Waterkotte Lee’s Summit, MO juvenile defense lawyer team has an abundance of 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 Missouri 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 Lee’s Summit or Elsewhere Throughout Missouri?
The possible outcomes for a juvenile accused of a crime can vary based on the severity of the offense, the juvenile’s prior record, and the specific circumstances of the case. All of these possibilities and what-ifs are precisely why you need a strong Lee’s Summit, MO juvenile defense attorney in your corner, fighting for your rights and future.
Do not leave it to chance in Lee’s Summit, MO; reach out to 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 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 Lee’s Summit, MO, or educational components.
Probationary Period
This is a common outcome for juvenile offenders in Lee’s Summit and throughout Missouri. Probation could involve routine check-ins with a probation officer, adherence to specific conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our skilled Lee’s Summit, MO legal staff is proficient in championing reasonable probation conditions, offering valuable guidance and assistance throughout the probationary period.
Restitution
In some cases in Lee’s Summit, 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 placement outside of the home in the Lee’s Summit, 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 certain age, successfully completing 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 Lee’s Summit, MO to understand the jurisdiction-specific guidelines. 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 Lee’s Summit 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 distinct circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.
What Are the Different Types of Juvenile Crimes in Lee’s Summit and Throughout Missouri?
Juvenile crimes in Lee’s Summit, MO encompass a spectrum of offenses and can vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent acts. Common types of juvenile crimes in Lee’s Summit 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: 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 on your side.
- Shoplifting and Theft/Burglary: Thankfully, the Missouri courts don’t feel children have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, including 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, like shoplifting, there are a variety of penalties, including restitution and fines, probation, or even detention in severe cases.
- Trespassing: In most cases, juvenile trespassing is done with far 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 are unique in that, as explained above, a juvenile becomes an adult for driving purposes at 15 ½. The Juvenile Division cannot take any cases beyond that age, but if the traffic violation is severe enough to warrant jail time a juvenile DWI charge for example, 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 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 based on the specific 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.
- 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 residents of Lee’s Summit, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Lee’s Summit, MO, our lawyers are experienced in several forms of law, such as:
Who Decides if a Juvenile Can Be Tried as an Adult in Lee’s Summit, MO?
If you have been charged with a serious crime as a juvenile, you need to have a conversation with a defense attorney in Lee’s Summit, 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 after reading 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 Lee’s Summit criminal defense attorneys will vigorously work to establish your innocence. In the event of a guilty plea or verdict, a variety of outcomes may unfold. 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 Lee’s Summit, MO Today at Combs Waterkotte
Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is vital for ensuring a fair and equitable resolution for young individuals entangled in the Lee’s Summit or Missouri legal system. With adept legal representation, juveniles in Lee’s Summit, MO stand a better chance at rehabilitation and a promising future.
We comprehend the unique challenges and pressures of being a kid these days, and we use this knowledge to your advantage. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, regardless of the severity of their charges. Call us right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us for a free, no-strings-attached case review.
