Juvenile Defense

A Maryland Juvenile Crimes Lawyer

Crimes or offenses committed by juveniles usually fall under the jurisdiction of the juvenile courts system. Though these courts operate differently than adult courts, the negative impact of a conviction or guilty finding on a juvenile's life may be significant. In order to minimize the repercussions and/or punishments in juvenile criminal matters, trust your child's case to the Law Office of Patrick J. Crawford. I have the experience and knowledge of juvenile crime cases that is essential to effectively pursuing a resolution to your child's situation.

Do not hesitate to contact my office today about your juvenile criminal matter.

By having a lawyer that is experienced in juvenile crime and delinquency issues, it is likely that you will better understand your options and the juvenile process. I pride myself on being able to thoroughly communicate and explain the juvenile process and how that process compares to the adult court system. I can also discuss the sentencing options that are commonly available to judges in juvenile courts.

Juveniles can be charged with the same types of crimes as adults, although the punishments and consequences are very different. Some common types of juvenile matters include drug offenses, automobile theft, shoplifting, assault, and underage alcohol violations, among others.

If convicted, juveniles are not sent to prison.

Juveniles who are found guilty or involved and found to be delinquent are not sent to adult prison, however, juveniles may be confined to alternative types of facilities depending on a variety of factors, including the type of crime that was alleged and any social services that the court believes the child may need. Once a child is found to be delinquent, the juvenile court may retain the child in its jurisdiction until that child is 21 years old. A juvenile may be confined to a detention home or a juvenile treatment center for a few months to several years. Community service, restitution payments, letters of apology, victim awareness classes, and other terms or conditions of probation may also be imposed as a sentence on juvenile offenders.

I am thorough in my handling of juvenile crimes defense matters. Contact my firm today to learn more about how I can help you and your child move through your juvenile crimes defense situation as efficiently and effectively as possible.