Juvenile Cases Attorneys Serving Sarasota, Tampa, Charlotte, Pinellas, Polk, and Hillsborough Counties

Florida Juvenile Crimes

Adolescents are prone to make a variety of mistakes as they near adulthood.  Unfortunately, these mistakes may be illegal in nature, which can lead to severe legal punishments and a damaged criminal record. Regardless of their age, a damaged criminal record can negatively impact a minor’s future employment and educational opportunities. 

Juvenile crimes are illegal activities that are committed by people who are below the legal age of 17.  Criminal activity among adolescents is continually on the rise.  In an effort to limit juvenile crime, Florida Law Enforcement has become stricter on juvenile crime matters.  Common Florida Juvenile Crimes include, but are not limited to:  

• Driving under the influence (DUI)
• Underage drinking
• Traffic Violations (speeding and reckless driving)
• Drug crimes (possession, selling, or distribution of narcotics)
• Violent crimes (such as theft, battery, or vandalism) 

Juvenile Crime Consequences
When a parent is contacted by law enforcement because their child is being charged with a juvenile crime, their whole world is turned upside down.  Often times, parents are unsure what to do and they may not always know how act in their child's best interest.  Juveniles that are charged with crimes face legal consequences which can include:

• Monetary fines
• Time in juvenile correctional facilities
• Community service
• Terms of probation
• Removal from their parents' home

While legal consequences for adults are for punishment purposes, juvenile crime consequences are geared toward the treatment and rehabilitation of the minor. 

Juvenile Rights
Just like adults, minors have individual rights and they can protect and defend themselves against their criminal charges.  Juveniles have the right to remain silent when questioned by law authorities, the right to cross examine witnesses who are testifying against them, and the right to an attorney.

If your child is being charged with a juvenile crime, the best thing you can do for them is retain an experienced criminal defense attorney.  By retaining the services of a skilled Florida attorney, you are ensuring that you child will receive the legal representation, advice, and information they need to defend themselves against their charges. 

At Finebloom & Haenel, P.A., our attorneys can help your child by negotiating with prosecutors.  By working with prosecutors, we can possibly have your child’s charges reduced or dismissed entirely.  With our help, your child can move forward with their life without having to worry about their past mistakes hindering their future possibilities. 

Contact us about your legal matter today!