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Having a child accused of a crime can be extremely stressful and overwhelming, especially if you don’t have much experience with the legal system. You might be wondering who will hear their case, and whether you’ll need a bail bond to get them out of jail. Fortunately, the legal system in Connecticut treats juvenile offenders differently than adult defendants, so you may be able to secure their release immediately if you understand the process.

What Happens if Juveniles Are Arrested in Connecticut?

Who Is Considered a Juvenile?

Under Connecticut law, anyone under the age of 18 is considered a juvenile, which makes them eligible for a different set of sentencing options and other protections. Instead of a jury, these cases are heard solely by a judge who will weigh the evidence and make a determination.

What Happens After an Arrest?

bail bondBased on their age and the crime, a probation officer or counselor will review the charge. If the defendant has been accused of a minor crime that didn’t result in property damage, they may be eligible for non-judicial handling. Instead of a court hearing, your child will meet with a probation officer to work out a fair penalty. Cases handled this way don’t count as convictions, although government officials will be able to tell that your child has been involved with the court.

For more serious crimes, the defendant will be asked to appear in juvenile court, and if they are convicted, they may serve time in a juvenile detention center or attend mandatory counseling.

When Will They Be Released?

After arresting a juvenile, police may fingerprint the defendant and take mugshots, but it isn’t always necessary. In most cases, the accused will get a summons before being released into the custody of their parents or legal guardians. However, if they’re facing especially serious charges, they may be tried as an adult, and you may need a bail bond to secure their release.
 

With offices throughout Connecticut, our team at 3-D Bail Bonds has the resources and expertise to help reunite juvenile offenders with their families across the state. No matter what law enforcement agency they’re being detained by or where they’re being held, our bail agents will secure their jail release on bail as quickly as possible. Visit us online to learn more about posting a bail bond or call (860) 247-2245 to stop by our main office in Hartford. To reach our local office in New Britain, call (860) 229-2525. Dial (203) 562-6666 for fast 24/7 bail bonds in New Haven.

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