Allen, Texas Juvenile Crimes Defense Attorneys

Trusted Criminal Defense Lawyers for Juvenile Offenses in Allen

While state prosecutors are often more lenient with juveniles who are accused of violating the law, the outcomes of these cases can still have a tremendous impact on a child's future. An adjudication of delinquency may increase a child's risk of becoming a repeated or lifelong offender. Juvenile courts function differently from adult criminal courts, and many law firms may not be equipped to provide a child with the legal support and guidance they need in these cases. If your child has been accused of a crime in Allen, an experienced Texas juvenile crimes defense attorney can help to defend their rights and safeguard their future.

At Barbieri Law Firm, we are more than prepared to take on juvenile cases. We have more than 50 years of combined courtroom experience in criminal defense and juvenile court cases. Regardless of the charges a child is facing, we approach each case with a 115-point checklist to ensure that our clients receive thorough, comprehensive representation. More than 275 five-star reviews can attest to our success and our commitment to clients in Allen and the surrounding areas.

Juvenile Crime Defense and Court Proceedings in Texas

Parents of children who have been arrested understand the importance of quality legal counsel. Criminal convictions can uproot anyone's life, regardless of their age. In juvenile courts, the consequences that a child may face include:

• Being sentenced to a juvenile detention facility
• Being placed on house arrest
• Paying fines
• Being put on probation
• The requirement to wear a monitoring bracelet
• A record that may affect a minor's opportunity to get into a good college
• The possibility of being tried as an adult when a case is transferred to a criminal court

In contrast to the adult criminal justice system, juvenile cases typically consist of three main components:

• Detention: Immediately after a juvenile is taken into custody, the court will hold a detention hearing to determine whether the circumstances of the case justify further detainment. By demonstrating community ties, school attendance, supervision at home, and a plan of action that addresses the court's concerns, our lawyers can argue for a child's release into the custody of a parent or guardian.
• Adjudication: This is the trial phase of juvenile court. A defense may focus on excluding unlawful evidence, cross-examining witnesses, or challenging probable cause. The state must prove that an offense occurred beyond a reasonable doubt. If the court finds that the child committed the offense in question, the child will be adjudicated delinquent.
• Disposition: This is the juvenile equivalent of sentencing. The court will proceed to a disposition only if it finds that a child was delinquent. Our defense attorneys may provide mitigating details such as family support, evaluations, school records, counseling, and other structured alternatives. We will advocate for solutions that will minimize the impact on a child's life and future.

When Can a Minor Be Charged as an Adult?

The Lone Star State may charge children as adults under specific circumstances, depending on the severity of the alleged crime and the minor's age. In general, children who are 14 years old or older may face adult criminal charges in cases involving aggravated controlled substance felonies, first-degree felonies, or capital felonies. Children who are 15 or older may be eligible for transfers to adult court in cases involving second- and third-degree felonies.

The court must find that there is probable cause to believe that a child committed an applicable offense, and a judge must determine that trying a case in adult court is necessary to protect the safety of the community. Our lawyers will work to prevent a child from being tried as an adult by challenging probable cause and showing a lack of criminal history. We will advocate for rehabilitation and alternative treatment or supervision options, helping a child avoid a criminal conviction.

Contact Our Allen, TX Juvenile Crimes Defense Lawyers

The criminal justice system can be frightening and intimidating for anyone accused of a crime. For children, juvenile court cases can have a permanent impact on their future. At Barbieri Law Firm, our legal team understands the gravity of these accusations, and we will provide children and families with the legal support to help ensure that these cases can be resolved successfully. If your child is facing criminal allegations, call us at 972-424-1902 or contact our Allen, Texas juvenile charges defense attorneys online to arrange a free consultation.