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Chicago Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
Introduction
When a child is charged with a crime, their entire future may be at risk. The juvenile justice system in Illinois is designed to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, but being charged with a juvenile offense can still lead to serious consequences. Juveniles facing criminal charges may face detention, fines, probation, or placement in residential treatment centers. In certain cases, a juvenile may even be tried as an adult in adult court, where penalties are much harsher.
If your child is facing criminal charges, it’s crucial to have an experienced Chicago juvenile crimes lawyer on your side. The attorneys at Chicago Trusted Attorneys understand the unique challenges of the juvenile justice system and will work tirelessly to protect your child’s future. Our law offices have successfully defended juvenile clients against charges such as theft, drug crimes, weapons charges, and more.
What Are Juvenile Crimes in Illinois?
Juvenile crimes are offenses committed by individuals under the age of 18. Unlike adult criminal cases, juvenile cases are handled in juvenile courts, which emphasize rehabilitation over punishment. However, certain serious crimes may result in a minor being tried in adult court.
Common juvenile crimes include:
- Theft or shoplifting
- Drug possession or drug crimes
- Vandalism and property damage
- Weapons charges
- Assault or battery
- Underage drinking and possession of alcohol
- Traffic violations that may result in a driver’s license suspension
If a child is found guilty of a juvenile offense, the court may impose a range of penalties, such as community service, probation, court supervision, or placement in a residential treatment center. Repeat offenders may face more serious consequences, and some juveniles could be transferred to adult court, where they face harsher sentences.
How the Juvenile Justice System Works
The Illinois juvenile justice system is distinct from the adult system in several important ways. While adult criminal cases aim to punish offenders, the juvenile system focuses on rehabilitation and preserving the child’s future. Juvenile cases are heard in juvenile courts, where judges prioritize what is in the best interests of the child.
1. Arrest and Intake
When a juvenile is accused of a crime, a police officer may issue a citation or take the child into custody. The child’s case is then referred to the juvenile court system, where a juvenile probation officer or an assistant state’s attorney will review the charges.
2. Detention Hearings
If the child is detained, a detention hearing will be held to determine whether the child should remain in custody or be released to their parents or guardians. This hearing must occur within 24 to 48 hours of the child’s detention.
3. Court Proceedings
Juvenile court proceedings may involve bench trials, where the judge makes a final decision on the case. In some situations, a plea agreement may be reached before trial. If plea negotiations fail, the case may proceed to trial. Juvenile court cases are typically closed to the public to protect the child’s privacy.
4. Sentencing and Disposition
If the juvenile is found guilty of a crime, the judge will determine an appropriate sentence. Sentencing alternatives may include probation, community service, fines, restitution, or placement in a residential treatment center. Juveniles may also be placed under court supervision, which requires them to meet certain conditions over a set period.
Consequences of Juvenile Crimes
Juvenile crimes can have significant consequences for a child’s future. While the juvenile system focuses on rehabilitation, a child’s juvenile record may still impact college applications, job opportunities, and housing eligibility.
Potential consequences include:
- Detention in a juvenile detention center.
- Probation with strict conditions to follow.
- Court supervision as an alternative to detention.
- Fines and restitution to compensate victims.
- Driver’s license suspension for traffic-related offenses.
- Loss of future opportunities, such as college admissions or employment.
If a child becomes a repeat offender, the court may impose harsher penalties. In extreme cases, the child may be transferred to adult court, where the consequences are much more severe.
Can Juveniles Be Charged as Adults?
In some cases, juveniles can be charged as adults. If the offense is particularly serious, such as a violent crime or a felony involving a weapon, the assistant state’s attorney may request that the juvenile be transferred to adult court. The decision is made by a juvenile court judge, who considers the nature of the offense, the child’s age, and their history of prior offenses.
If a juvenile is tried in adult court, they face adult penalties, which often include harsher sentences, longer prison terms, and a permanent criminal record. It is essential to have a strong legal defense from an experienced juvenile lawyer if there is a risk of transfer to adult court.
Why You Need a Chicago Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
Juvenile crimes are not minor issues. If your child is facing criminal charges, hiring a skilled juvenile lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of the case. A lawyer with experience in juvenile defense can protect your child’s legal rights, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight for a favorable resolution.
At Chicago Trusted Attorneys, our legal team offers the best legal representation for juveniles facing criminal charges. We understand that young people deserve a second chance, and we are committed to protecting their future. Our defense attorneys have extensive trial experience and have successfully represented juvenile clients in cases ranging from misdemeanor juvenile crimes to more serious charges like drug crimes and weapons offenses.
How a Juvenile Lawyer Can Help
An experienced juvenile lawyer can help your child in several key ways, including:
- Challenging evidence: If evidence was not obtained legally, your lawyer may file a motion to have it excluded.
- Negotiating plea agreements: Your attorney can work with the assistant state’s attorney to reach a plea agreement prior to trial, potentially avoiding more serious consequences.
- Defending your child’s legal rights: The juvenile justice system must respect the constitutional rights of the child, and your lawyer will ensure those rights are upheld.
- Exploring sentencing alternatives: Instead of detention, your lawyer may advocate for other sentencing alternatives, such as probation or community service.
Our experienced litigators know how to challenge allegations, negotiate plea agreements, and seek the best possible outcomes for juvenile clients.
Take Action to Protect Your Child’s Future
If your child is facing charges in juvenile court, don’t wait to seek help. The legal system can be overwhelming, and a single mistake could affect your child’s future for years to come. Hiring a Chicago juvenile crimes lawyer gives your child the best chance at a favorable outcome.
At Chicago Trusted Attorneys, our experienced trial lawyers are dedicated to defending the rights of juveniles and protecting their futures. Our defense attorneys have the skills, experience, and commitment needed to provide an effective defense in every case.
Learn more about Chicago juvenile crimes lawyer services. Call Chicago Trusted Attorneys at (312) 931-5411 to schedule your free consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a juvenile be charged as an adult in Illinois?
Yes, for serious offenses, the assistant state’s attorney can request to have the case transferred to adult court. The juvenile court judge will consider the age of the child, the nature of the offense, and other factors before making a decision.
2. What happens if my child is found guilty of a juvenile crime?
If a child is found guilty, the court may impose probation, community service, or placement in a residential treatment center. In more serious cases, the child could face detention in a juvenile facility.
3. Can I keep my child’s juvenile record private?
Juvenile records are generally sealed, but they may still be accessible to certain agencies. Your lawyer can help you petition the court to have the juvenile record expunged.
4. How can a juvenile lawyer help my child?
A juvenile lawyer can protect your child’s rights, challenge evidence, negotiate plea deals, and seek alternatives to detention. An experienced attorney will work to protect your child’s future.
5. What is the difference between a juvenile court and an adult court?
Juvenile courts focus on rehabilitation, while adult courts emphasize punishment. Juvenile cases are heard by a judge, not a jury, and penalties are focused on rehabilitation rather than incarceration.
If your child is facing charges, contact a Chicago juvenile lawyer today. We will defend your child’s rights and pursue the best possible outcome for their future.