For Juvenile Crimes, Attorneys at Dale Carson Law Understand How the Court System Handles Juveniles & can Protect the Rights of Youths Charged with Crimes
When it comes to juvenile crimes, an attorney is helpful in protecting your rights and guiding you through the legal process because the Florida juvenile justice system operates differently than the justice system for adults. Although the juvenile court system emphasizes rehabilitation rather than punishment, a conviction can still result in serious consequences for both the child and his or her parents. Having a qualified criminal defense lawyer on your side is just as important in the juvenile system as it is in the adult criminal justice system.
Defense attorneys at Dale Carson Law have experience defending youths who face charges in the Florida juvenile justice system. If someone you know is facing criminal charges in juvenile court, contact a juvenile crime attorney at Dale Carson Law today: 904-355-6777.
Understanding the Differences between Florida’s Juvenile Justice System and the Adult Criminal Justice System
The most significant differences between the juvenile and adult criminal justice systems is that juvenile cases tend to progress more quickly, there is no option for a jury trial, and sentences are shorter. Florida law puts greater restrictions on how long a juvenile can remain in custody, or detained, before a trial can take place. This is part of the reason juvenile cases progress more quickly. However, the faster pace also creates more opportunities for rights to be violated, so having a juvenile crime attorney familiar with the system, like those at Dale Carson Law, is essential.
If a case goes to trial in juvenile court, it will be heard by a judge, never by a jury. By not having a jury, the juvenile’s privacy is protected so that his criminal record as a juvenile does not impact his adult life — as long as the juvenile is not convicted of any other crimes.
Most juvenile cases result in probation. A youth sentenced to probation may be required to do community service, get counseling, or fulfill other obligations imposed by the court. The other option for sentencing is commitment. Commitment is the juvenile equivalent of jail. Commitment sentences range from 30 days to 36 months, depending on the crime committed and how big of a risk the judge believes the defendant presents.
In rare cases a juvenile case can be “direct filed” to adult court. This is usually done for cases involving repeat offenders accused of very serious crimes, like murder. When a juvenile’s case goes to adult court, the juvenile is subject to the same procedures and potential sentences as an adult charged with the same crime.
If Your Child has been Charged with a Juvenile Crime, an Attorney at Dale Carson Law is Available for a Free Initial Consultation
The Florida juvenile justice system is very different than the justice system for adults. If your child faces potential charges in juvenile court, find out what your rights are and how to protect your child. Initial consultation with a lawyer from Dale Carson Law is absolutely free. Go to our Complimentary Consults page to schedule a free consultation regarding juvenile crimes; an attorney will call you.
Or call a juvenile crime attorney at Dale Carson Law today at 904-355-6777
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