Juvenile Criminal Defense in California
When a minor is accused of committing a crime, the case is generally handled through California's juvenile justice system. Juvenile proceedings differ significantly from adult criminal cases and involve their own procedures, terminology, and potential consequences.
Although the juvenile justice system places an emphasis on rehabilitation, a juvenile case can still have serious consequences for a young person's education, family, future opportunities, and freedom.
California Law Centers, APC. represents minors and their families in juvenile criminal matters and works to protect the rights and future of the young person throughout the legal process.
Types of Juvenile Offenses
Juvenile cases can involve a wide range of allegations, including:
- Assault and battery
- Theft and shoplifting
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Drug-related offenses
- Vandalism and property offenses
- Weapons-related allegations
- Alcohol-related offenses
- Driving-related offenses
- Other misdemeanor and felony allegations
The seriousness of a juvenile case depends upon the alleged offense, the minor's age and history, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and other factors.
The Juvenile Court Process
California juvenile delinquency proceedings are different from traditional adult criminal trials. Juvenile cases generally do not involve a jury. Instead, the evidence is presented to a juvenile court judicial officer.
The minor is entitled to important constitutional and legal protections, including the right to be represented by an attorney. When the allegations must be proven at an adjudication hearing, the prosecution bears the burden of proving the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
Depending upon the circumstances, a defense may involve challenging the prosecution's evidence, witness statements, identification, searches and seizures, statements made to law enforcement, or other aspects of the case.
Can a Juvenile Case Be Transferred to Adult Criminal Court?
In certain serious cases involving qualifying offenses and minors who meet applicable age and other statutory requirements, the prosecution may seek to have the matter transferred from juvenile court to adult criminal court.
Transfer is not automatic. California law establishes procedures and factors the juvenile court must consider before determining whether an eligible case should be transferred.
Because the consequences can be significant, cases involving the possibility of transfer should be addressed carefully and promptly.
Protecting a Young Person's Future
A juvenile case is about more than what happens in the courtroom. Parents are understandably concerned about how an arrest or juvenile proceeding could affect their child's education, employment opportunities, record, and future.
Every case is different. Our legal team carefully reviews the allegations, police reports, witness statements, available video or other evidence, and the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine what defenses and options may be available.
Our goal is to protect the minor's legal rights while pursuing the best available resolution based upon the individual facts and circumstances of the case.
Contact California Law Centers
If your child has been arrested, cited, or accused of a criminal offense, contact California Law Centers, APC. for a free case evaluation.
With over 30 years of legal experience, Attorney James Hairgrove and the legal team at California Law Centers provide experienced and responsive criminal defense representation.
888-DMV-2DUI (888-368-2384)
619-667-3743
[email protected]
San Diego • Riverside • San Bernardino
The information provided on this page is general information and is not legal advice. Juvenile cases depend upon the age of the minor, the alleged offense, applicable law, and the individual facts and circumstances. No particular result is guaranteed.
