Juvenile Defense Lawyer Jackson County, MO

Juvenile defense lawyer in Jackson 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, no matter the severity, having a skilled, experienced, and compassionate Jackson 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 Jackson County and throughout Missouri. Our legal team plays a vital role in ensuring that our young clients in Jackson County, MO and their families receive fair treatment and are provided with the best opportunities for rehabilitation. We understand 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 case review. Our Jackson County, MO lawyers are committed to providing expert legal advice and determining the most appropriate course of action for your situation.

Why You Need a Jackson County, MO Juvenile Defense Lawyer

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 Jackson 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 Jackson County, MO defense attorney familiar with its intricacies.

The Combs Waterkotte Jackson County, MO juvenile defense lawyer team has an abundance of 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 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, 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.
• 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 Jackson County or Elsewhere Throughout Missouri?

The potential resolutions for a juvenile facing criminal accusations depend on factors such as 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 Jackson County, MO juvenile defense lawyer by your side, tirelessly advocating for your rights and future.

Do not leave the outcome to chance in Jackson County, 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 Jackson County, MO, or educational components.

Probationary Period

Probation stands as a common resolution for juvenile offenders in Jackson 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 Jackson 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 Jackson County, MO, juvenile offenders may be required to make restitution to the victim(s), either via financial payments or community service.

Juvenile Detention

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

Expungement

Certain juvenile records may be expunged or sealed after the juvenile reaches a certain age, finishes the required program, or stays out of trouble for a specified 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 Jackson County, MO for guidance on the specific guidelines per jurisdiction. Our team is available 24/7. Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.

It is crucial to realize that the Jackson 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 depend on the unique circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court.

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

Juvenile offenses in Jackson County, MO can encompass a spectrum of offenses and can vary in severity, from nonviolent to violent acts. Some of the more common types of juvenile crimes in Jackson County and throughout Missouri 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. Homeschooling is an option, but parents must prove the child is getting 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 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, 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. To be charged, vandalism must be proven to be purposeful. Penalties range from restitution and fines to probation or, in severe cases, detention.
• Trespassing: Juvenile trespassing is typically driven by different intentions than adult trespassing. Fortunately, the courts apply 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 beyond 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: 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 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: The penalties for juvenile arson vary wildly based on the specific 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.
• Unlawful 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 skilled legal team ensures that the residents of Jackson County, MO receive the best possible legal presentation in any situation. Along with juvenile defense in Jackson County, MO, our attorneys are experienced in several types of cases, such as:

• Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
• Homicide Lawyer
• Assault Lawyer
• Rape Defense Lawyer
• Sex Offense Lawyers
• DWI Attorney
• Crime Defense Lawyers
• Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
• Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
• Criminal Lawyer

Who Decides if a Juvenile Can Be Tried as an Adult in Jackson 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 Jackson County, MO as soon as possible. The Combs Waterkotte legal team is available for free consultations at (314) 900-HELP or by contacting us online.

Under RSMo. § 211.071, a juvenile court judge determines 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 seriousness 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 Jackson County criminal defense attorneys will do everything in their power to prove your innocence. Yet, 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 Jackson County, MO Right Away at Combs Waterkotte

Finding the right juvenile defense lawyer is crucial for ensuring a fair and just resolution for young individuals navigating the legal system in Jackson County or elsewhere in Missouri. With the right legal representation, juveniles in Jackson County, MO stand a better chance at rehabilitation and a promising future.

We recognize the unique challenges and pressures of being a kid these days, and we use this knowledge for your benefit. Combs Waterkotte fights for our clients, regardless of the severity of their charges. Give us a call now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us for a free, commitment-free case review.