Juvenile Defense Lawyer Ladue, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Ladue, MO. Navigating the difficulties of the legal system as a juvenile can be an overwhelming experience for both you and your family. If you’re facing charges, regardless of their severity, it’s crucial to have a skilled, experienced, and compassionate Ladue, 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 Ladue and throughout Missouri. Our legal team plays a vital role in ensuring that our young clients in Ladue, 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 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 consultation. Our Ladue, MO attorneys are committed to providing expert legal advice and determining the most appropriate course of action for your situation.

Why You Need a Ladue, MO Juvenile Defense Lawyer

In Missouri, the Juvenile Division of the Circuit Court exclusively handles juvenile crimes, as well as cases of abuse, neglect, adoptions, and more. This is extremely beneficial to you because of the fact that when a juvenile is accused of a crime in Ladue or anywhere else in Missouri the Juvenile Division provides rehabilitative measures rather than punishment. However, this also means that you should have a seasoned Ladue, MO defense attorney by your side who understands the intricacies of the juvenile court proceedings.

The Combs Waterkotte Ladue, 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 to consider. Call us now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

Who is a Juvenile or an Adult Under Missouri 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 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 Ladue, MO | Ladue, MO Criminal Defense Law Firm | Combs Waterkotte

What Are Some Possible Outcomes of a Juvenile Accused of a Crime in Ladue 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 precisely why you need a strong Ladue, MO juvenile defense attorney in your corner, fighting for your rights and future.

Do not leave it to chance in Ladue, MO; call 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 Ladue, MO, or educational components.

Probation

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

Restitution

Some Ladue, MO cases may involve juvenile offenders being obligated to provide restitution to the victim, whether via financial payments or community service.

Juvenile Detention

In instances of severe or repeated offenses, the court may order juvenile confinement or placement outside of the home in the Ladue, MO area. This often happens when rehabilitation within the community is deemed unfeasible.

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 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 Ladue, MO to understand the jurisdiction-specific guidelines. Our team is available 24/7. Call us right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.

It is important to recognize that the juvenile justice systems in Ladue and Missouri are crafted with a main focus on the well-being of the juvenile, prioritizing rehabilitation and treatment. The specific outcome will depend on the unique situations of each case and the discretion of the court.

What Are the Different Types of Juvenile Crimes in Ladue and Throughout Missouri?

Juvenile offenses in Ladue, MO encompass a range of activities and can vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent acts. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Ladue 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: This involves being in public during hours when a minor is required to be at home. These 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 don’t feel children have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Property crimes, such as shoplifting and theft, fall under the purview of the Juvenile Division. The approach is geared toward correcting juvenile behavior, frequently involving release to parents, restitution, probation, diversionary programs, counseling, or in more severe cases, 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 variety 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 cannot 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 will likely 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 according to 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 based on the specific circumstances. In minor cases, juveniles might be required to fulfill 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.
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 Ladue, MO | Combs Waterkotte

Our experienced legal team ensures that the citizens of Ladue, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. In addition to juvenile defense in Ladue, MO, our attorneys are experienced in several forms of law, such as:

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

If you have been charged with a serious crime as a juvenile, you need to have a conversation with a defense attorney in Ladue, MO as soon as possible. The Combs Waterkotte legal team is available for free case reviews at (314) 900-HELP or by contacting us online.

According to RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge decides whether you will be tried as an adult after reading the charges, your record, and following a hearing. The judge will consider the gravity 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 Ladue criminal defense attorneys will do everything in their power to prove your innocence. In the event of a guilty verdict, various 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 Ladue, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

Securing the services of an adept juvenile defense lawyer is vital for ensuring a fair and just resolution for juveniles entangled in the Ladue or Missouri legal system. With the right legal representation, Ladue, MO juveniles can have a fighting chance at rehabilitation and a promising future.

We understand the unique challenges and pressures 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.

Ladue, MO