Frisco, TX Juvenile Crimes Lawyers

Experienced Attorneys Representing Minors in Juvenile Delinquency Cases in Frisco, Texas

Minors who have been accused of crimes may face penalties that could affect their future for years to come. Juvenile criminal charges are serious matters that can result in the possibility of detention in a juvenile facility, probation, mandatory counseling or treatment, community service, restitution, and other issues that may affect a minor's educational and professional opportunities in the future.

In these cases, families may feel overwhelmed by the legal process and unsure about what steps to take to prevent harsh penalties and protect a child's future. The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm can provide a compassionate legal defense for minors who have been charged with juvenile offenses in Frisco and the surrounding areas. Our goal is to guide young people and their families through the juvenile justice process while protecting children's rights and working to achieve outcomes that will help avoid long-term consequences.

Common Juvenile Offenses

Minors between the ages of 10 and 17 may be charged with a wide range of criminal offenses. While many juvenile cases involve non-violent conduct or first-time mistakes, charges of juvenile delinquency are still taken seriously. Our lawyers can defend against many types of juvenile offenses, including:

• Juvenile Sexual Assault: Allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct between minors can lead to charges of sexual assault or other similar offenses. These cases can lead to multiple types of long-term consequences, including possible sex offender registration.
• Terroristic Threats: Minors who make verbal or written threats that cause people to believe that they will suffer harm or that disrupt school or other public settings may be charged with making a terroristic threat. Even if a threat was made as a joke, the legal system may impose harsh penalties.
• Possession or Consumption of Alcohol: Underage possession, purchase, or consumption of alcohol can result in criminal charges, driver's license suspension, fines, and other penalties. Minors may also face school disciplinary actions alongside criminal consequences.
• Drug Possession: Minors who are accused of possessing marijuana, prescription medications, or other controlled substances may face charges that could range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the type and amount of the drug(s) involved.
• Assault or Fighting: Physical altercations between minors may result in assault charges. Fights in schools and other youth settings could lead to arrests, and in addition to the possibility of juvenile delinquency charges, schools may take disciplinary action.
• Theft or Other Property Crimes:Minors may be accused of offenses such as shoplifting, vandalism, or burglary. If they are adjudicated delinquent, they may be required to pay restitution in addition to other penalties.
• Use of a Fake ID: Minors who use false identification to purchase alcohol or enter restricted venues may face criminal charges. These may apply in addition to any related underage drinking allegations.

Juvenile Court Procedures and Potential Outcomes

Juvenile delinquency cases can result in significant legal consequences. The process typically begins with a referral to the juvenile justice system, which may occur after a child is arrested for an offense. A minor may be detained in a juvenile detention center or released to their parents or guardians during the proceedings.

The stages of a juvenile case may include:

• Detention hearing to determine whether the minor should be held in custody while the case is ongoing
• Adjudication hearing, similar to a trial, where a judge will decide whether the minor engaged in delinquent conduct
• Disposition hearing to determine the appropriate consequences

If a minor is adjudicated delinquent, they may be placed on probation and required to meet certain requirements, such as performing community service, receiving counseling, or maintaining attendance at school. If necessary, a child may be placed in a residential treatment or rehabilitation facility, or they could be held in detention by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department for a certain period of time.

The juvenile justice system focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment. However, the outcome of a case may still have serious implications for a child's record and their future. The records related to their case may be accessible by others, which could affect their opportunities to find employment or receive an education.

Assistance for Minors and Their Families in Juvenile Crime Cases

The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm work closely with families to provide guidance, support, and legal advocacy throughout the juvenile justice process. We take the time to understand our clients' circumstances, explain their legal options, and develop defense strategies focused on minimizing the long-term impact that a case may have on a child. We can:

• Investigate the facts of a case and challenge questionable law enforcement procedures or unreliable evidence
• Advocate for deferred prosecution or diversion programs for eligible minors
• Present mitigating factors to the court, such as a minor's lack of criminal history or their participation in their community
• Work with mental health professionals or counselors when appropriate to review a case and obtain insights about appropriate measures that may be beneficial for a child
• Help families prepare for court proceedings and understand the potential outcomes
• Take steps to protect a minor's record and avoid problems that could affect them in the future

We work to achieve results that will help young people move forward without being defined by a mistake or misunderstanding. In addition to providing representation in juvenile delinquency cases, we can assist with school disciplinary proceedings, working to protect a child's right to receive an education.

Contact Our Frisco, Texas Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorneys

When a child has been accused of a criminal offense, it is essential to take the right steps to protect their future. Juvenile charges can carry serious consequences, but the attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm can help determine the best options for resolving the matter with minimal penalties. Contact our Frisco juvenile criminal defense lawyers today at 972-424-1902 to arrange a free consultation.