Juvenile Defense Lawyer Warrenton, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Warrenton, MO. Navigating the difficulties of the legal system as a juvenile can be a daunting experience for both you and your family. If you are facing charges, no matter their severity, it’s crucial to have a skilled, experienced, and empathetic Warrenton, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side.

The juvenile defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing juveniles involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Warrenton and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Our legal team plays a crucial role in making sure that our young clients in Warrenton, MO and their families receive fair treatment and are provided with the best opportunities for rehabilitation. We realize that good people find themselves in challenging 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 Warrenton, MO attorneys 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 Warrenton, MO

In [wdac-state-long], the Juvenile Division of the Circuit Court exclusively handles juvenile crimes, as well as cases of abuse, neglect, adoptions, and other things. This is extremely beneficial to you because of the fact that when a juvenile is accused of a crime in Warrenton or anywhere else in [wdac-state-long] the Juvenile Division provides rehabilitative measures instead of punishment. However, this also means that you should have a knowledgeable Warrenton, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.

The Combs Waterkotte Warrenton, 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 right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact 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 circumstances 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 Warrenton 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 Warrenton, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating for your rights and future.

Don’t leave it to chance in Warrenton, 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 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 Warrenton, MO, or educational components.

Probationary Period

This is a common outcome for juvenile offenders in Warrenton and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Probation could involve routine check-ins with a probation officer, adherence to specific conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our skilled Warrenton, MO legal team is proficient in championing reasonable probation conditions, offering valuable guidance and assistance throughout the probationary period.

Restitution

In some cases in Warrenton, 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 out-of-home placement in the Warrenton, MO area. This frequently happens when rehabilitation within the community is deemed unfeasible.

Record Expungement

Some juvenile records may be expunged or sealed upon reaching a specific age, successfully finishing 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 Warrenton, MO for guidance on the specific guidelines per jurisdiction. Our staff is available 24/7. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

It is important to note that the Warrenton 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 depend on the unique circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.

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

Juvenile offenses in Warrenton, MO encompass a range of offenses that vary in severity, ranging from nonviolent to violent acts. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Warrenton 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: This involves 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 [wdac-state-long] 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. 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, 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, 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 beyond that age. However, 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.
• Simple 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 offense is categorized as a misdemeanor, potentially leading to consequences like jail time, community service, restitution, probation, counseling, or fines.
• Arson: Penalties for juvenile arson cases can vary widely 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.
• 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 knowledgeable legal team ensures that the residents of Warrenton, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. Along with juvenile defense in Warrenton, MO, our attorneys are experienced in several forms of law, including:

• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer
• Sexual Misconduct Lawyer
• Traffic Ticket Lawyer
• Order of Protection Defense Lawyer
• Speeding Ticket Lawyer

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

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

According to RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge decides whether you will be tried as an adult based on the charges, looking at your record, and following a hearing. The judge will consider the gravity 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 [wdac-city] 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 may 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 a worst-case situation, you may be immediately sent to an adult prison.

Connect With a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Warrenton, MO Right Now at Combs Waterkotte

Securing the services of an adept juvenile defense lawyer is crucial for ensuring a fair and just outcome for minors entangled in the legal system in Warrenton or elsewhere in [wdac-state-long]. With adept legal representation, juveniles in Warrenton, MO can have a fighting chance at rehabilitation and a successful future.

We comprehend the unique challenges and pressures of being a kid these days, and we leverage this understanding to your advantage. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, no matter the severity of their charges. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us for a free, no-obligation case review.