Juvenile Defense Lawyer Putnam County, MO
Juvenile defense lawyer in Putnam County, MO. Facing legal hurdles and difficulties 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 skilled, experienced, and compassionate Putnam County, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes of the utmost importance.
The juvenile defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing individuals involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Putnam County and throughout Missouri. Our legal team plays a vital role in making sure that our young clients in Putnam County, MO and their families receive fair treatment and are provided with the best opportunities for rehabilitation. We recognize that good people find themselves in challenging 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-obligation consultation. Our Putnam 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 Putnam 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 people facing juvenile charges in Putnam County or anywhere else in Missouri. The Juvenile Division focuses on rehabilitative measures instead of punitive measures, emphasizing the importance of proper guidance and support for young individuals. However, this also means that you should have a knowledgeable Putnam County, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.
The Combs Waterkotte Putnam County, 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. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact 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, 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.
- In order to purchase a long gun, an individual must be 18; for a handgun, it’s 21.
What Are Some Possible Outcomes of a Juvenile Accused of a Crime in Putnam County 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 exactly why you need a strong Putnam County, MO juvenile defense attorney in your corner, fighting for your rights and future.
Do not leave it to chance in Putnam 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 be eligible for diversion programs, which are alternative measures designed to divert them away from formal court proceedings. These programs frequently include counseling, community service in Putnam County, MO, or educational components.
Probationary Period
Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Putnam County and across Missouri. It typically involves regular check-ins with a probation officer, compliance with specified conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our experienced Putnam 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 Putnam County, MO, juvenile offenders may be required to make restitution to the victim(s), either through financial payments or community service.
Juvenile Detention
In cases of serious or repeated offenses, the court may mandate juvenile detention or out-of-home placement in the Putnam County, MO area. This decision is often made when community-based rehabilitation appears impractical.
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. 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 Putnam County, MO to understand the jurisdiction-specific guidelines. Our staff is available 24/7. Call us right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
It is crucial to realize that the Putnam County and Missouri juvenile justice systems are designed to focus on the best interests of the juvenile, emphasizing 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 Putnam County and Throughout Missouri?
Juvenile crimes in Putnam County, MO encompass a range of activities and can vary in severity, ranging from nonviolent to violent offenses. Common types of juvenile crimes in Putnam 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 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, such as 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, similar to shoplifting, there are a range 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, 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 can’t take any cases over that age, but if the traffic violation is severe enough to warrant jail time a juvenile DWI charge for example, the traffic court judge may request the juvenile court to supersede.
- Assault: Due to recent law changes, a juvenile may now be charged with simple assault for injuring another person or for seriously threatening to harm another person. 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 a fine.
- Arson: Penalties for juvenile arson cases can vary widely depending on the circumstances. In less severe instances, juveniles could 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: This is an unfortunately common charge and the possible penalties for unlawful possession could be as minor as a fine or as major as jail time.
Our experienced legal team makes sure that the citizens of Putnam County, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Putnam County, MO, our lawyers are experienced in a variety of types of cases, including:
Who Decides if a Juvenile Can Be Tried as an Adult in Putnam County, MO?
If you are facing serious charges as a juvenile, it is important to consult with a defense attorney in Putnam County, MO promptly. The legal team at Combs Waterkotte offers free consultations, accessible through (314) 900-HELP or via 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, whether the community needs to be protected from you, whether the crime involved force or violence, whether you hurt another individual, your history of of breaking the law, and your age.
If you are tried as an adult, our Putnam County criminal defense attorneys 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 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 Putnam County, MO Right Now at Combs Waterkotte
Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is paramount to securing a fair and just outcome for minors navigating the legal system in Putnam County or elsewhere in Missouri. With the right legal representation, Putnam County, MO juveniles stand a better chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.
We understand 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, commitment-free consultation.
