Juvenile Defense Lawyer Wentzville, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Wentzville, 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, experienced, and compassionate Wentzville, MO juvenile defense lawyer quickly becomes paramount.

The legal professionals at Combs Waterkotte specialize in representing individuals involved in criminal or delinquency proceedings in Wentzville and throughout [wdac-state-long]. Our legal team plays a crucial role in making sure that our young clients in Wentzville, 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 difficult 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 Wentzville, MO attorneys are committed to providing expert legal advice and determining the most appropriate course of action for your situation.

Why You Need a Wentzville, MO Juvenile Defense Lawyer

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 Wentzville 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, this also means that you should have a knowledgeable Wentzville, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.

The Combs Waterkotte Wentzville, 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 to consider. Call us right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact 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. The age differs for various other circumstances under [wdac-state-long] law, 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 Wentzville 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 Wentzville, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating for your rights and future.

Don’t leave it to chance in Wentzville, MO; call 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 qualify for alternative programs aimed at diverting them from formal court proceedings. These initiatives, like counseling, community service opportunities in Wentzville, MO, or educational components, provide alternatives to traditional legal pathways.

Probationary Period

Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Wentzville and across [wdac-state-long]. It typically involves regular check-ins with a probation officer, compliance with specified conditions, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Our experienced Wentzville, MO legal team excels in advocating for reasonable probation terms and offering invaluable support and guidance throughout the probationary period.

Restitution

Some Wentzville, MO cases may involve juvenile offenders being obligated to provide restitution to the victim, either through financial payments or community service.

Juvenile Detention

In cases of major or repeated offenses, the court may mandate juvenile detention or out-of-home placement in the Wentzville, MO area. This decision is often made when community-based rehabilitation appears impractical.

Expungement

Certain juvenile records may be expunged or sealed upon reaching a specific age, successfully completing required programs, or maintaining a clean record for a defined duration. However, some offenses may persist on the record even after reaching adulthood. It is crucial to consult with a Combs Waterkotte juvenile defense lawyer in Wentzville, 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 crucial to recognize that the juvenile justice systems in Wentzville and [wdac-state-long] are crafted with a main concentration centered on the well-being of the juvenile, prioritizing rehabilitation and treatment. The final resolution will depend on the distinct circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.

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

Juvenile offenses in Wentzville, MO can encompass a range of offenses and can vary in severity, ranging from nonviolent to violent acts. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Wentzville 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. 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: Fortunately, the [wdac-state-long] courts don’t feel children have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, including 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. To be charged, vandalism must be proven to be purposeful. Penalties range from restitution and fines to probation or, in serious cases, detention.
• Trespassing: In most cases, juvenile trespassing is done with far different intentions than adult trespassing. Consequently, the courts apply 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 over that age. Yet, if a traffic violation is serious 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. Referred to 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: Penalties for juvenile arson cases can vary widely based on the specific circumstances. In less severe instances, 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.

Our knowledgeable legal team makes sure that the residents of Wentzville, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. Along with juvenile defense in Wentzville, MO, our lawyers 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 Wentzville, MO?

If you are facing serious charges as a juvenile, it is vital to consult with a defense attorney in Wentzville, MO promptly. The legal team at Combs Waterkotte offers free consultations, 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, looking at your record, and after a hearing. Factors considered by the judge include 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, 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.

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

Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is crucial for ensuring a fair and just resolution for juveniles navigating the legal system in Wentzville or elsewhere in [wdac-state-long]. With the right legal representation, juveniles in Wentzville, MO stand a better chance at rehabilitation and a promising future.

We comprehend the pressures and challenges faced by today’s youth, and we leverage this understanding for your benefit. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, regardless of the severity of their charges. Give us a call immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us for a free, commitment-free consultation.