MELBOURNE JUVENILE CRIMES LAWYER

Experienced Defense Against Juvenile Crime Charges in Brevard County

When someone you love—especially your child—is arrested for a crime, it is stressful and frightening. You will likely have many questions and some major concerns about what your son or daughter will be facing, as well as how it will affect his or her future. Getting answers from law enforcement and jail personnel is not an option, which is why you should immediately turn to a qualified Melbourne criminal defense attorney.

At Law Offices of Laura D. Siemers, we can obtain the information you need, listen to your concerns, and aggressively protect your child’s legal rights throughout the process, which will occur under the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). With more than 20 years of experience dealing with both adult and juvenile criminal cases, we have the knowledge and skills you need at this crucial time.

Our Melbourne juvenile crimes attorney can work to get the charges dropped or to reduce the damage to your child’s future should the case lead to a conviction.

Has your child been arrested? Contact Law Offices of Laura D. Siemers online or at (321) 218-5512 for a free, initial case evaluation from our Melbourne juvenile criminal defense lawyer.

Florida's Juvenile Justice System

The legal process for handling a juvenile crime in the state of Florida is very different from that involving an adult. It involves different courts, laws, procedures, rules, and detention centers and is designed to rehabilitate rather than punish. A child who has been arrested and placed within the DJJ has the right to an juvenile defense attorney, and this right should be exercised to ensure full understanding of each phase of the process, as well as strong legal advocacy throughout its duration.

A juvenile has other rights as well during this time, such as the right to remain silent, to be apprised of the charges against him or her, to be able to examine evidence, confront his or her accusers, and to a trial by jury.

Common Juvenile Offenses in Florida

Juveniles can be arrested for all of the same crimes committed by adults. Common juvenile criminal crimes can include:

• Drug possession
• Shoplifting
• Underage drinking
• Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
• Driving while texting
• Sexting
• Sexual misconduct
• Reckless driving
• Using a fake ID
• Theft
• Vandalism
• Gang-related activities

Diversionary Programs for Juveniles 

In many juvenile crime cases, diversionary programs may be ordered in lieu of more serious penalties. These programs can consist of community service, counseling, restitution, personal letters of apology, and more; once the program has been completed, charges are generally dismissed. Our firm understands all aspects of the system, including alternative programs that can be offered to successfully resolve the juvenile criminal case without serious harm to your child’s future.

Learn more about your child’s case and legal options. Talk to our Melbourne juvenile offenses attorney at (321) 218-5512 or contact us online.