Juvenile Defense Lawyer Lewis County, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Lewis County, 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, regardless of the severity, having a talented, knowledgeable, and empathetic Lewis County, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes paramount.

The legal professionals at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing juveniles involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Lewis County and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Our legal team plays a vital role in ensuring that our young clients in Lewis County, 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 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-strings-attached consultation. Our Lewis County, MO attorneys are committed to providing expert legal advice and determining the most appropriate course of action for your situation.

Why You Need a Lewis County, MO Juvenile Defense Lawyer

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 individuals facing juvenile charges in Lewis County 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 young individuals. However, navigating the juvenile court system requires the expertise of an experienced Lewis County, MO defense attorney familiar with its intricacies.

The Combs Waterkotte Lewis County, MO juvenile defense lawyer team has an abundance of 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 today 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. It’s crucial to note that age distinctions may vary for different situations under the laws of, 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 Lewis County, MO | Lewis County, MO Criminal Defense Law Firm | Combs Waterkotte

What Are Some Possible Outcomes of a Juvenile Accused of a Crime in Lewis County or Elsewhere Throughout [wdac-state-long]?

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

Don’t leave it to chance in Lewis County, 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 scenarios:

Diversion Programs

Juveniles may qualify for alternative programs aimed at diverting them from formal court proceedings. These initiatives, like counseling, community service opportunities in Lewis County, MO, or educational components, provide alternatives to traditional legal pathways.

Probationary Period

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

Restitution

In some cases in Lewis County, 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 confinement or placement outside of the home in the Lewis County, MO area. This decision is frequently made when community-based rehabilitation appears impractical.

Record 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 Lewis County, MO for guidance on the specific guidelines per jurisdiction. 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 juvenile justice systems in Lewis County and [wdac-state-long] are crafted with a primary focus on the well-being of the juvenile, prioritizing rehabilitation and treatment. The specific outcome will be contingent upon the distinct circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.

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

Juvenile crimes in Lewis County, MO encompass a spectrum of activities and can vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent offenses. Common types of juvenile crimes in Lewis 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: Fortunately, 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, often 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 variety of penalties, including restitution and fines, probation, or even detention in serious cases.
Trespassing: In most cases, juvenile trespassing is done with far different intentions than adult trespassing. Fortunately, the courts see this and have far 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 over that age. However, 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.
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 could 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.

Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Lewis County, MO | Combs Waterkotte

Our experienced legal team makes sure that the citizens of Lewis County, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. Along with juvenile defense in Lewis County, MO, our attorneys are experienced in a variety of forms of law, such as:

Who Decides if a Juvenile Can Be Tried as an Adult in Lewis 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 Lewis 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 determines whether you will be tried as an adult after reading the charges, your record, and following a hearing. The judge will consider the gravity of the charges, whether the community needs to be protected from you, the presence of force or violence in the crime, 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 lawyers will do everything in their power to prove your innocence. In the event of a guilty plea or verdict, a variety of outcomes might unfold. 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.

Contact a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Lewis County, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is paramount to securing a fair and just outcome for young individuals entangled in the Lewis County or [wdac-state-long] legal system. With the right legal representation, Lewis County, MO juveniles 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 for your benefit. At Combs Waterkotte, we ardently advocate for our clients, irrespective of the severity of their charges. Call us right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Lewis County, MO