Lansing juvenile crimes lawyer one bad decision shouldn’t define a child’s life
Making mistakes is part of growing up, but sometimes those mistakes can land an adolescent in hot water. If your child or teenager has been charged with a juvenile crime, you will want to consult with a Lansing criminal defense lawyer who is familiar with how juvenile cases are prosecuted in Michigan. As a younger lawyer myself, I believe in compassionate yet aggressive legal representation that takes your child’s future into consideration. At Coontz Law, you and your family are more than just a case number. I always put my clients’ best interests first.
What is a juvenile delinquency action?
In Michigan, a juvenile is defined as a child under the age of 17. You may be surprised to learn that when a juvenile commits a crime, they are not charged with that crime – instead, they are charged with something referred to as a “delinquency action.” This applies to any offense that would otherwise be directly charged were they an adult.
Juveniles are also subject to “status offenses,” which include
- Truancy
- Running away from home
- Violating curfews
After being charged with a delinquency action, the juvenile must appear in court where a judge will decide what action will be taken. Depending on the crime and the circumstances, the court may dismiss the case, refer your child to counseling, or pursue charges. Occasionally, a juvenile age 14 or older may be charged as an adult if the crime warrants it.
Get help dealing with the juvenile justice system
If your minor child has been charged with a crime, you are probably feeling overwhelmed. You also probably fear for your child’s future. I know how scary this is for you and your family, but I also know that the keys to a sound defense are a detail-oriented approach and creative problem-solving.
As part of the new generation of criminal defense attorneys in Lansing, I bring a fresh perspective and intimate knowledge of the latest technologies and procedures the courts use when prosecuting juvenile cases. I can help you and your family get back on track to a bright future.
