What Qualifies As A Juvenile Crime?
Understanding The Legal Age For Juvenile Charges In Arizona
Any individual who is under the age of 18 goes through juvenile court. Though, serious cases can be transferred to adult court. If they turn 18 while they are being prosecuted, they will remain in juvenile court since the offense happened while they were under 18. Once a person turns 18, any offense they commit will be charged in adult court.
The state of Arizona does treat juveniles differently depending on age. Any child who is under the age of 10 cannot be prosecuted for a crime. If they do commit a crime, CPS might get involved or family support programs may be required. Minors who commit a crime when they are 10-13 can be charged, but they mainly face counseling, rehabilitation, and family support consequences. Minors 14-17 years old can be charged with any offense, are punished more harshly, and are eligible for adult court in some cases.
Experienced Juvenile Defense Attorneys With Flexible Payment Options
When you are the parent or guardian of a juvenile who has committed a crime, you are likely concerned about what the future holds for your child. You want what is best and you want to make sure they get the best support possible. You may also be unsure of how to move forward and protect you and your child’s rights. But legal support often comes with a cost. At My AZ Criminal Defense, we are passionate about helping families and individuals who have juveniles that are facing criminal penalties. We believe everyone deserves quality legal representation which is why we have put together flexible payment plan options. When you schedule a free consultation with us, ask us about how our fees and payment structures work. We value transparency and will walk you through how our lawyers will help and what it will cost you. We are confident that you will find hiring our lawyers worth it. Between the peace of mind you can have, someone to help you understand all the legalities of what is happening, and the more favorable outcomes, you will be glad you hired our juvenile crimes lawyers.
Common Juvenile Crime Cases We Handle
-
Larceny
-
Arson
-
Vandalism
-
Alcohol Crimes
-
Underage DUI
-
Drug Crimes
-
Trespassing
-
Assault
-
Sexual Offenses & Harassment
-
Violent & Weapon Crimes
Our Clients’ Testimonials
5-Star Rated Juvenile Crimes Defense Law Firm
I would like to express my gratitude to My AZ Criminal Defense Lawyers! They were incredibly professional, honest, and patient with my case. Working with them was easy, and they consistently kept me updated about my situation. Their legal staff is really committed to assisting people. Excellent legal service!
A.L.
★★★★★
Bryce Brown is exactly what you want in a criminal defense attorney. He is honest and compassionate.
A.B.
★★★★★
Great service! I was having a very tough time with my case, but the team of My AZ Criminal Defense Lawyers was very supportive throughout the entire legal process. They were very respectful and patiently answered all of my questions. In the end, we managed to succeed thanks to their professionalism and knowledge. I definitely recommend their legal services in Phoenix.
C.S.
★★★★★
Effective Juvenile Defense Strategies & Legal Tactics
Challenging False Claims
When it comes to cases involving minors, it is not uncommon to see misunderstandings, exaggerations, or peer conflicts that lead to false accusations. Minors are often more rash than adults which can make challenging false claims a helpful legal strategy. Our lawyers will look over any possible motives to lie, inconsistent statements, or any lack of credibility in witnesses. We can use evidence like text messages, videos, and school records to build this defense.
Proving Mistaken Identity
Minors are often found in situations where there are large groups, chaotic surroundings, or low-quality surveillance videos. In these cases, it is possible to be accused of doing something when, in fact, it was a case of mistaken identity. If you believe your minor was mistakenly identified as a perpetrator, reach out to our lawyers for help. We have the tools and experience necessary to build your minor’s alibi to prove they did not commit the offense.
Showing Lack of Intent
In order to be convicted of a crime, the court must show that the juvenile intended to commit the offense. Because juveniles are young and often act immaturely or impulsively, it is possible that they are facing a charge for something they had no intent on doing. Or maybe they did something without fully understanding the consequences. No matter the circumstances, we will help show that there was a lack of intent so that the case can be dismissed or the penalties reduced.
Defending Coercion Cases
Our lawyers often look into whether or not the juvenile felt threatened, peer pressured, or manipulated into committing the offense. While this may not dismiss the case altogether, it can significantly reduce the penalties and lead to more alternative rehabilitation instead of other types of penalties. Reach out to our lawyers today if your minor has been accused of a crime. The sooner you contact us, the better chances we have at finding evidence for a strong defense.
Establishing Entrapment
In the event that law enforcement induced or encouraged a juvenile to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed, the minor cannot be held criminally responsible. Cases where entrapment can happen involve drugs, online communications, or theft stings. If you believe your minor was entrapped by law enforcement, do not hesitate to reach out to our lawyers. We will walk you through what entrapment is and help you determine if it’s a solid defense in your case.
Exposing Police Misconduct
Juveniles have the same rights as any other adult. They have a right to have a lawyer present, they have a right to remain silent, and they must have their Miranda rights read to them just like anybody else. If police are found to have made procedural mistakes during the arrest and interrogation, our lawyers can use this as a defense. Any evidence discovered during a rights violation can be thrown out of court which can significantly alter the outcome of a case.
Disputing Weak Evidence
Our lawyers will evaluate all of the evidence against your juvenile to see if there is anything weak or inconsistent. Sometimes there can be gaps in the timeline, a lack of forensic evidence, or unreliable witness accounts. In these cases, our lawyers will argue that the evidence is too weak for a conviction which can lead to dismissal, reduced charges, or diversion programs instead of a criminal record. Reach out to us at My AZ Criminal Defense to find the best defense in your case.
Legal Penalties For Juvenile Offenses
Community Service
There are specific nonprofits, schools, churches, or community programs that your juvenile can be assigned to for community service. They will be given a certain amount of hours to complete and the service might be tailored to their offense.
Court Fines & Penalties
In some cases, fines will be given to a juvenile as a penalty. The parent will be required to pay the fines if the minor is unable. However, fines in juvenile court are not typically as high as in adult court. They are meant to encourage accountability, but financial hardship.
Restitution & Reparations To Victims
Restitution is different from court fines. This financial consequence involves paying the victim for the damages they experienced as a result of the offense and is often paid through a payment plan. A juvenile can be required to pay both court fines and restitution.
Participation in Diversion Programs
If a juvenile successfully participates and completes a diversion program, they often are able to avoid having the offense on their record. Our lawyers frequently push for diversion programs as an outcome for juvenile cases as it can be one of the most favorable options.
Mandatory Counseling Sessions
Juvenile court is known for assigning rehabilitative penalties instead of punitive ones. One of these penalties is counseling sessions. Typically the counseling is connected to the offense such as anger management, substance abuse, or family therapy.
Probation Monitoring
In Arizona, one of the more common penalties for juveniles is probation. This requires the minor to regularly check-in with a probation officer. It also requires them to attend school, get drug tested, and adhere to curfews. It helps the minor live life, but under supervision.
Juvenile Detention Sentences
When an offense is more serious, but does not qualify for adult court, a juvenile might be sentenced to detention. They may face a few days to a long-term detention sentence. Unlike jail, detention centers focus on education, life skills, and therapy.
Why Choose My AZ Criminal Defense Lawyers
For Juvenile Defense
Aggressive Legal Defense & Evidence Review
At My AZ Criminal Defense, we have a track record of success at bringing the best possible outcome to challenging cases. We work hard to build strong legal defenses for our clients starting with thoroughly investigating your case and reviewing the evidence against you. From there, our lawyers will find evidence to support a defense.
Proven Strategies For Favorable Outcomes
Our strategies have worked well throughout the years and we have changed and developed them as new information has become available. When you hire our lawyers after your minor has been arrested, you can be sure that we will fight for the most favorable outcome in your juvenile’s case. Don’t wait, contact us today for a consultation.
Experience In Juvenile Felony & Misdemeanor Cases
Whether your juvenile is facing a serious felony or a minor misdemeanor, we can handle the case. We have experience handling cases of all severity and have solid strategies to protect the rights and freedoms of your minor. We will do everything in our power to protect their future. Don’t face their charges alone, reach out to us for help.
When Are Juveniles Are Tried As Adults In Arizona?
First-Degree Murder
Minors between the age of 15-17 who are accused of first-degree murder will automatically be charged as an adult due to how serious this offense is.
Second-Degree Murder
Intentionally killing someone, even if not premeditated, is still a serious offense and juveniles between 15-17 that are accused are required to be tried as adults.
Forcible Sexual Assault
Arizona takes forcible sexual assault very seriously. If your minor has been accused, reach out to our lawyers right away for representation!
Armed Robbery
When robberies occur using an armed weapon, the consequences are significant. Minors will face adult court and adult penalties if found guilty.
Other Violent Felonies
Don’t face any accusation of a violent felony alone! Reach out to our lawyers who are skilled at representing juveniles in adult court and will do everything to protect their future.
Repeat Or Chronic Offenders
A minor can face adult court even for less severe convictions if they have become a repeat offender. Our lawyers can help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation!
Multiple Or Combined Offenses
When more than one offense is committed at the same time, especially if they are more serious, the combination of offenses could land a minor in adult court.
Juvenile Crimes Defense Law Firm Serving Throughout Arizona
AZ 85042, United States View Map | Get Directions
FAQs About Juvenile Crime Defense
Read Our Blog & Learn More About Criminal Defense Cases
Think Arizona’s DUI Laws Are Strict? Check Out These Extreme DUI Laws From Different States
Driving under the influence is treated as a serious criminal offense in Arizona, while other states punish defendants with the [...]
Arizona Truck Driver Accepts Plea Deal For Less Than One Year Behind Bars After Killing Two & Wounding Seventeen
While driving becomes second nature for most of us over the years, it’s also important to remember that when we [...]
Should I Take Anger Management If I Am Charged With A Crime In Arizona?
Rage comes from many sources, and failing to address them can have violent consequences. This can cause a defendant to [...]
