Many adolescent children make mistakes, sometimes getting themselves into trouble that leads to stiff legal repercussions. To make matters worse, many parents whose children have been accused of a crime have limited experience with the criminal justice system, making the situation even more confusing and stressful. If your teenage son or daughter has had a run-in with the law, there are a few things you need to know about juvenile defense.

4 Important Things to Understand About Juvenile Defense

1. Juvenile Convictions Are Not Considered Criminal

Unlike criminal convictions, records of an offense by a juvenile will not be available to future employers or college admissions offices. However, you should still have an attorney help seal the records so one youthful mistake doesn’t haunt your child’s future.

2. Juvenile Court Is for Offenders Who Are 16 Years Old & Younger

Defendants who are 16 years old or younger appear in juvenile court, while 17-year-olds are charged in adult court as “youthful offenders.” All moving violations, however, are handled in adult court, regardless of the defendant’s age.

3. There Is No Jury

Juvenile court cases are decided by a single judge, not a jury of citizens. According to the Supreme Court, denying jury rights to adolescent offenders preserves their confidentiality and keeps the process from becoming completely adversarial.

4. Juveniles Are Not Entitled to Bail

Unlike adult defendants, juveniles are not entitled to bail, and they might have to wait for their court date in jail. Many courts, however, choose to release defendants into their parents’ custody.

If your child has been accused of a crime, James Parrish Coleman Attorney At Law in Robertsdale, AL, has the juvenile defense experience needed to protect their rights and help achieve the best possible outcome for their case. Visit their website for an overview of their juvenile law services, and call (9251) 947-6247 to schedule a consultation with a skilled legal professional today.