No parent wants to learn that their son or daughter has been accused of a crime. The Pennsylvania juvenile justice system is complex and difficult to navigate without help. A lack of legal knowledge and counsel could severely affect your child’s future.
A Butler County juvenile defense lawyer could provide your child with a dedicated defense to minimize their charges or drop them altogether. All of our lawyers are former prosecutors and therefore uniquely and well-equipped to defend criminal cases. To learn more, schedule an initial consultation with a skilled criminal defense attorney at Benjamin Levine Law today.
Young people are still developing their understanding of the world and the consequences of their actions. Because of this, the law generally establishes 18 as the age of majority, recognizing that by this point, individuals have reached a level of cognitive maturity necessary for making responsible decisions.
While most teenagers are well-behaved, occasional lapses in judgment can lead to legal trouble. In some cases, youthful mistakes can escalate into criminal offenses. Common charges that minors may face include:
If your child is facing criminal charges, our experienced defense attorneys can help navigate the legal system and work toward the best possible outcome. Contact us today to discuss your case.
Children are not tried the same way as adults, and the potential penalties for juvenile offenders differ. The Pennsylvania juvenile justice system has broad discretion in deciding an appropriate punishment for an underage offender. It takes into account the child’s needs, individual situations, the seriousness of the offense, and the risk of reoffending.
To this end, a juvenile judge could order probation, which would allow the child to stay at home but follow certain requirements, such as a curfew, treatment, and community service. A judge can also order detention, which is similar to adult jail but with fewer restrictions.
Regardless of the punishment, a juvenile record could affect a child’s future job opportunities and the right to own a gun or join the military. An experienced and compassionate defense lawyer could provide guidance through the juvenile justice system in Butler County and advocate for a fair outcome, minimizing the risks to their client’s future.
Parents would do anything to protect their children if they have been accused of wrongdoing, but navigating the juvenile justice system is more complex and challenging than many realize. A Butler County juvenile defense lawyer could provide much-needed guidance during this challenging time.
A seasoned attorney at Benjamin Levine Law could help you and your child and advocate for their rights throughout the legal process. Talk about your child’s situation with Benjamin Levine Law today to discuss the next best steps to take.