Juvenile Defense Lawyer Pike County, MO
Juvenile defense lawyer in Pike 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, no matter the severity, having a skilled, knowledgeable, and empathetic Pike County, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes of the utmost importance.
The legal professionals at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing juveniles involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Pike County and throughout Missouri. Our legal team plays a crucial role in ensuring that our young clients in Pike County, MO and their families receive equitable treatment and the best opportunities for rehabilitation. We realize that good people find themselves in challenging 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 case review. Our Pike County, MO lawyers 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 Pike County, MO
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 especially advantageous for individuals facing juvenile charges in Pike County 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, navigating the juvenile court system requires the expertise of an experienced Pike County, MO defense attorney familiar with its intricacies.
The Combs Waterkotte Pike 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 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 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 Pike County or Elsewhere Throughout Missouri?
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 Pike County, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating for your rights and future.
Don’t leave it to chance in Pike County, MO; reach out to the lawyers 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 Pike County, MO, or educational components.
Probation
Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Pike County and across Missouri. It typically involves routine check-ins with a probation officer, compliance with specified conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our experienced Pike 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 Pike County, MO, juvenile offenders may be required to make restitution to the victim(s), whether through financial payments or community service.
Juvenile Detention
In instances of severe or repeated offenses, the court may mandate juvenile confinement or out-of-home placement in the Pike County, MO area. This often happens when rehabilitation within the community is deemed unfeasible.
Record Expungement
Certain juvenile records may be expunged or sealed after the juvenile reaches a specific age, finishes the required program, or stays out of trouble for a defined period. 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 Pike County, MO for guidance on the specific guidelines per jurisdiction. Our staff is available 24/7. Call us right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
It is important to realize that the Pike County and Missouri 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 situations of each case and the discretion of the court.
What Are the Different Types of Juvenile Crimes in Pike County and Throughout Missouri?
Juvenile crimes in Pike County, MO can encompass a spectrum of activities and can vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent offenses. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Pike County 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. 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, so it is crucial to have an experienced juvenile defense lawyer by your side.
- Shoplifting and Theft/Burglary: Thankfully, the Missouri courts recognize that children may not have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, including 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 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. Consequently, and fortunately for you, 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 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 over that age, yet 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.
- 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. 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 fines.
- Arson: The penalties for juvenile arson vary wildly based on the circumstances. In less severe instances, 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.
Our skilled legal team makes sure that the residents of Pike County, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. Along with juvenile defense in Pike County, MO, our lawyers are experienced in a variety of forms of law, such as:
Who Decides if a Juvenile Can Be Tried as an Adult in Pike 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 Pike County, MO as soon as possible. The Combs Waterkotte legal team is available for free case reviews 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 after 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 Pike County criminal defense attorneys will do everything in their power to prove your innocence. In the event of a guilty plea or verdict, various 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 Pike County, 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 young individuals navigating the Pike County or Missouri legal system. With the right legal representation, juveniles in Pike County, MO can have a fighting chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.
We comprehend the pressures and challenges 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. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.
