Orlando Juvenile Crime Lawyer
Everyone makes mistakes. When that mistake crosses the line into criminality, the consequences can follow you for the rest of your life. At the Joshi Law Firm, PA we believe in second chances. We believe that a person should not have their entire life derailed because of something that happened when they were a teenager. If your child has been arrested on criminal charges, you need a seasoned juvenile defense attorney on your side as soon as possible to ensure that your child gets a fair chance in the juvenile justice system and to avoid the worst consequences of conviction that can last a lifetime.
The Florida juvenile crime defense attorneys at the Joshi Law Firm, PA fight for the rights of Florida minors charged with juvenile or adult crimes. We make sure that all Florida juvenile defendants have the best opportunity to present their side of the case. If there is a deferral or other alternative procedure available that will not result in a conviction, we’ll find it. If there’s a lesser charge that is available via plea bargain, we’ll negotiate the best deal available. If the charges are unfounded and should be dropped entirely, we’ll fight for justice. Call the Orlando juvenile crime lawyers at the Joshi Law Firm, PA to start building your defense today.
What is a Juvenile?
In the State of Florida, a juvenile is any individual under the age of 18. Minors have fewer rights than adults and, indeed, lack the right to enter into a binding contract with an attorney. Their parents must step in and find the minor appropriate legal representation.
Juveniles who are arrested go through a separate, juvenile court system. Even if the child will soon turn 18, so long as they were arrested while they were still 17, the arrest will be considered a juvenile crime. Under certain circumstances, however, the court can choose to try a juvenile as an adult.
Florida law allows minors over the age of 14 to be charged as adults if they are accused of certain crimes. These include aggravated assault, armed robbery, sexual assault, and other serious crimes. Minors over the age of 16 can be tried as an adult for any felony charge. Prosecutors will often pursue this route for minors who are charged with any serious crime, but you and your child have the right to push back.
At the Joshi Law Firm, PA we understand that the criminal justice system is about rehabilitating juveniles, not punishing them. Our juvenile defense team will help your family avoid adult criminal court wherever possible, and avoid the most severe consequence of conviction.
Juvenile Court vs. Adult Court
The adult and juvenile criminal court processes are somewhat different. Juvenile cases in Florida are typically handled in civil court, as opposed to criminal court. The processes and procedures are different, as are the legal protections. For example, minors might not have the right to a jury trial, and may instead face only the judge’s decision.
If a minor is found guilty of a crime, however, they will face similar consequences as an adult in the criminal justice system. They can face probation, community service, fines, restitution, and imprisonment. They may be detained in a juvenile detention center pending trial. When defending against juvenile charges, it’s important to understand the nuances of the juvenile justice system and the different pathways available for avoiding conviction. An experienced Florida juvenile defense lawyer can help you and your child understand your options, your rights, and your best path forward.
Common Juvenile Crimes
At the Joshi Law Firm, PA we defend Florida juveniles against all manner of criminal charges. Some of the more common charges we see in the Florida juvenile justice system include:
- Underage drinking
- DUI
- Drug possession
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Assault and battery
- Shoplifting (petit larceny) and other theft offenses
- Drug trafficking
- Misdemeanor drug crimes
- Sexual assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Grand larceny, including grand theft auto
- Trespassing
- Felony drug crimes
- Vandalism
Whatever the nature of your charges or those faced by your child, our seasoned and dedicated juvenile justice attorneys are ready to help.
Call a Compassionate Florida Juvenile Defense Lawyer Today
The juvenile crime defense legal team at the Joshi Law Firm, PA is ready to fight for you, your family, and your rights. Please contact our office for further inquiry or if you would like to set up a consultation. Call today at 407-661-1109 to start building your case.
