Juvenile Defense Lawyer Linn, MO
Juvenile defense lawyer in Linn, MO. Navigating the complexities of the legal system as a juvenile can be an overwhelming 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 Linn, 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 Linn and throughout Missouri. Our legal team plays a crucial role in making sure that our young clients in Linn, MO and their families receive fair treatment and are provided with the best opportunities for rehabilitation. We understand that good people can find themselves in difficult 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 Linn, MO lawyers are committed to providing expert legal advice and determining the most appropriate course of action for your situation.
Why You Need a Linn, 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 particularly advantageous for individuals facing juvenile charges in Linn or anywhere else in Missouri. The Juvenile Division focuses on rehabilitative measures rather than punitive measures, emphasizing the importance of proper guidance and support for young individuals. However, this also means that you should have a seasoned Linn, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.
The Combs Waterkotte Linn, 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 now 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 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 consume or possess 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.
What Are Some Possible Outcomes of a Juvenile Accused of a Crime in Linn 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 Linn, MO juvenile defense attorney in your corner, fighting for your rights and future.
Do not leave the outcome to chance in Linn, 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 qualify for alternative programs aimed at diverting them from formal court proceedings. These initiatives, like counseling, community service opportunities in Linn, MO, or educational components, provide alternatives to traditional legal pathways.
Probationary Period
This is a common outcome for juvenile offenders in Linn and throughout Missouri. Probation could involve regular check-ins with a probation officer, adherence to specific conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our skilled Linn, MO legal staff is proficient in championing reasonable probation conditions, offering valuable guidance and assistance throughout the probationary period.
Restitution
In some cases in Linn, MO, juvenile offenders may be required to make restitution to the victim(s), whether via financial payments or community service.
Juvenile Detention
In cases of major or repeated offenses, the court may order juvenile confinement or out-of-home placement in the Linn, MO area. This decision is frequently made when community-based rehabilitation appears impractical.
Expungement
Certain juvenile records may be expunged or sealed upon reaching a certain age, successfully finishing required programs, or maintaining a clean record for a specified 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 Linn, 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 realize that the juvenile justice systems in Linn and Missouri are crafted with a main focus on the well-being of the juvenile, prioritizing rehabilitation and treatment. The specific outcome 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 Linn and Throughout Missouri?
Juvenile offenses in Linn, MO encompass a range of activities that vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent acts. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Linn and throughout Missouri include:
- Truancy: According to 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 hours can vary by jurisdiction, highlighting the importance of having an experienced juvenile defense lawyer by 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, fall under the purview of 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 range 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 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 beyond that age. Yet, if a traffic violation is severe enough to warrant jail time, such as a juvenile DWI charge, the traffic court judge may request the juvenile court to supersede.
- Assault: Recent legislative changes mean that a juvenile may now face charges of simple assault for injuring another person or for seriously threatening to harm another person. 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 a fine.
- Arson: Penalties for juvenile arson cases can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances. In less severe instances, juveniles could be required to fulfill 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 skilled legal team makes sure that the citizens of Linn, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Linn, MO, our attorneys are experienced in a variety of types of cases, including:
Who Decides if a Juvenile Can Be Tried as an Adult in Linn, MO?
If you have been charged with a serious crime as a juvenile, you need to have a conversation with a defense attorney in Linn, MO as soon as possible. The Combs Waterkotte legal team is available for free case reviews at (314) 900-HELP or by contacting us online.
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 Linn criminal defense lawyers will vigorously work to establish your innocence. Yet, if you are found guilty, there are several things that could happen. 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 Linn, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte
Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is crucial for ensuring a fair and equitable outcome for young individuals entangled in the legal system in Linn or elsewhere in Missouri. With adept legal representation, juveniles in Linn, MO stand a better chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.
We understand the unique challenges and pressures faced by today’s youth, and we use this knowledge for your benefit. At Combs Waterkotte, we ardently advocate for our clients, irrespective of the severity of their charges. Give us a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us for a free, no-obligation case review.
