In the state of Pennsylvania, juvenile court handles the majority of cases involving offenders under 18. However, some cases are directly filed in adult court, particularly serious offenses, which would be tried as if the offender were an adult.
If your child has been charged with a crime, a Cranberry Township juvenile defense lawyer could immediately get to work protecting their legal rights. Our seasoned defense attorneys could provide an aggressive defense and take decisive steps to seek the best possible resolution. Call Benjamin Levine Law today for more information.
Juvenile criminal cases in Cranberry Township are handled in the juvenile justice system, but they should still involve an attorney who could provide a constructive defense. However, direct file cases are handled in the criminal court system, where juveniles are tried as adults.
There are some key differences between juvenile crimes and direct file cases. The juvenile justice system emphasizes rehabilitation. This is the case with juvenile crimes such as criminal mischief, using a fake ID, underage DUI, or vandalism. Juvenile cases go before a judge and are not tried before a jury.
Direct file cases result in harsher punishments as these are referred directly to the criminal court. In these situations, juveniles are tried as adults and will face much harsher penalties, including the potential for prison time. Numerous alleged offenses can qualify for direct file, but some of the most commonly charged of these crimes include burglary, robbery, rape, aggravated assault, and manslaughter.
In some cases, the legal consequences of juvenile crimes include probation, fines, community service, and time in a juvenile detention facility. Probation is one of the most common dispositions for juvenile offenders. Various court-ordered conditions, such as drug testing and school attendance, can accompany it.
The juvenile case process typically involves several steps. Law enforcement, schools, parents, or community members usually first refer juveniles to the justice system. A document called a written allegation is prepared and if signed off on by a prosecutor, the juvenile is formally charged by the filing of a petition alleging delinquency.
If no diversionary program is available for the specific charges filed, next a judge decides during a trial whether the juvenile should be adjudicated delinquent, which is the same as a finding of guilt in criminal court, or the charge should be dismissed. If the juvenile is adjudicated delinquent, there is then a determination made by the Judge whether the juvenile is in need of treatment, supervision and rehabilitation. If treatment, rehabilitation and supervision is recommended and the judge agrees, probation or placement in a juvenile delinquency facility may be ordered.
Juvenile proceedings are designed to be less formal than adult proceedings, but that does not mean they should be approached without a skilled Cranberry Township defense attorney. Our lawyers are well-versed in the specific laws and procedures of the juvenile justice system, allowing them to navigate the complexities effectively.
An attorney could argue for alternative disposition options like probation, counseling, or community service, focusing on rehabilitation rather than solely punishment. However, juvenile cases may be transferred to adult court if the offender is 15 or older and commits certain serious crimes.
It is essential to work with a legal professional who understands the vast body of laws governing juvenile cases and can navigate the nuances of the legal system. Juvenile courts often prioritize rehabilitation over punishment.
Our team could thoroughly review the case details, identify potential defenses, and develop a strategic approach to present in court. If your child faces a direct file case, a Cranberry Township juvenile defense lawyer could protect your child’s rights and get a better outcome.
Our legal team comprises former prosecutors, making us uniquely well-equipped to defend criminal cases. We could argue that the case should stay in juvenile court, which may offer more rehabilitation and treatment options.
The most appropriate defense options and strategies will depend on the specific facts of the case. Call our office today to schedule your confidential consultation and discuss the next steps.