San Jose Juvenile Defense Lawyer

We Help Juveniles Facing Criminal Charges in California

Every parent wants their child to have a fulfilled and content life. We know you care about your children, teaching them to be the best they can be. Therefore, when your child is accused of a crime you feel as if your own freedom is in jeopardy. You face the possibility of your family being separated and the fear that your child may end up in prison. Adding to the stress is the fear of your child turning to a life of crime if imprisoned. Being accused of a crime as a juvenile can be a frightening experience. Having a child in the same predicament can be terrifying for any parent. However, a San Jose juvenile defense lawyer can help you stand up for your child’s rights and possibly reduce the charges he or she faces.

If your child committed a crime, The Law Offices of Thomas Nicholas Cvietkovich can help. Our goal is to successfully defend children when they face criminal proceedings. Attorney Nick Cvietkovich has been practicing as a juvenile crimes lawyer in San Jose, CA for years. Our law firm has handled more than 3,000 cases and has the experience needed to give you peace of mind. We can work to reduce the charges and/or the consequences your son or daughter faces. Additionally, we can help with the sealing or expungement of juvenile records.

Can a Juvenile Be Tried as an Adult in California?

Juveniles can be tried as an adult in certain circumstances such as violent crimes. If convicted, then your child may be sent to an adult correctional facility. While juveniles are often not tried as adults, the consequences of a juvenile sentence can still be severe. Depending on the severity of the crime and the age of the child, the court may simply order the child to live with you under court supervision, or put your child on probation. However, your child may also be sent away to the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) or a probation camp. The whole experience of the arrest can be even more traumatic if your child is detained at a juvenile hall instead of being sent home to you.

You may think that a child can only be tried as an adult for murder or attempted murder. However, a child can be tried and convicted as an adult for other crimes as well. This includes armed robbery, drug-related crimes, arson, or escaping from juvenile hall. Getting representation for your child in a juvenile case is important no matter what. However, if your child is being tried as an adult, then it is absolutely essential you seek legal representation. A child who is 16 or older can be sent straight to an adult correctional facility. A child who is younger will be placed in a juvenile facility but could later be transferred to an adult facility.

How Can a Juvenile Avoid Jail Time?

There are differences with juvenile crimes that affect the possibility of sentencing and jail time. California criminal court law defines that a minor is not found to be guilty or innocent. Instead, in juvenile delinquency proceedings, a judge will rule that the prosecuting attorney petition is sustained. This happens if the judge determines a juvenile has committed the alleged crime beyond a reasonable doubt. A minor faces a variety of sentences or dispositions after court proceedings. Depending on the case and crime, a judge may order informal probation. Our criminal defense lawyer may be able to use this opportunity to dismiss charges after completion of a program.

Additionally, a court may take over the responsibility for control and treatment of the juvenile by designating a minor as a ward of the court. In some cases, a minor may serve his or her probation at home, even if they are a ward of the court. Unfortunately, a judge may instead place a juvenile in foster care, group home or probation camp. The best way to help your child avoid jail time is by hiring an experienced juvenile defense lawyer. Our law firm has been protecting the rights of minors for years – we can help your child, too.

Contact us today at (408) 898-9770. At no cost to you, we can review your case and let you know how we can help.