Juvenile Defense Lawyer Livingston County, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Livingston County, 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, no matter their severity, it’s crucial to have a skilled, experienced, and compassionate Livingston County, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side.

The juvenile defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing minors involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Livingston County and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Our legal team plays a crucial role in making sure that our young clients in Livingston 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 are dedicated to doing everything within our power to provide assistance.

Call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our Livingston County, MO lawyers 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 Livingston County, 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 particularly advantageous for people facing juvenile charges in Livingston 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 minors. However, navigating the juvenile court system requires the expertise of an experienced Livingston County, MO defense attorney familiar with its intricacies.

The Combs Waterkotte Livingston 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. Call us right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

Who is a Juvenile or an Adult Under [wdac-state-long] 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 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 Livingston County, MO | Livingston County, MO Criminal Defense Law Firm | Combs Waterkotte

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

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

Probation

Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Livingston County 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 Livingston County, 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 Livingston 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 serious or repeated offenses, the court may mandate juvenile detention or out-of-home placement in the Livingston County, MO area. This decision is frequently made when community-based rehabilitation seems impractical.

Record Expungement

Certain juvenile records may be expunged or sealed upon reaching a specific age, successfully finishing 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 vital to consult with a Combs Waterkotte juvenile defense lawyer in Livingston County, MO to understand the jurisdiction-specific guidelines. Our team is available 24/7. Call us right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

It is important to recognize that the Livingston County 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 distinct circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.

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

Juvenile crimes in Livingston County, MO can encompass a spectrum of activities that vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent offenses. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Livingston County and throughout [wdac-state-long] 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. 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 hours can 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, 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: 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 commonally driven by different intentions than adult trespassing. Consequently, 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 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: Due to recent law changes, a juvenile may now be charged with 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 depending on the specific circumstances. In minor cases, juveniles might be required to pay restitution or perform community service and undergo counseling, but it can certainly become a major charge.
Unlawful 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 Livingston County, MO | Combs Waterkotte

Our skilled legal team ensures that the residents of Livingston County, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. Along with juvenile defense in Livingston County, MO, our attorneys are experienced in a variety of forms of law, including:

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

If you are facing serious charges as a juvenile, it is important to consult with a defense attorney in Livingston County, MO promptly. The legal team at Combs Waterkotte offers free case reviews, accessible through (314) 900-HELP or through our online contact form.

Under 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 seriousness of the charges, the need to protect the community, the presence of force or violence in the crime, harm inflicted on others, whether you have a record of breaking the law, and your age.

If you are tried as an adult, our [wdac-city] criminal defense lawyers will vigorously work to establish 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.

Contact a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Livingston County, MO Today at Combs Waterkotte

Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is crucial for ensuring a fair and just outcome for juveniles entangled in the Livingston County or [wdac-state-long] legal system. With adept legal representation, Livingston County, MO juveniles can have a fighting chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.

We recognize the pressures and challenges of being a kid these days, 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 now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us for a free, commitment-free consultation.

Livingston County, MO