Teen legal troubles are upsetting for any parent. If you’re a teen who’s facing charges, you’re likely very frightened. Whether you’ve been falsely accused or not, it’s important to seek the counsel of an experienced Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense lawyer.
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The Juvenile Justice System: How Does the Process Work?
After an arrest, the minor will go into temporary custody. In some cases, the teen receives a warning. Other times, the authorities will take the minor to a juvenile detention center.
Like adults, minors have the right to an attorney. If your child is facing legal troubles, we recommend you contact a reputable Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Minors in California don’t have the right to bail or a jury trial. This means a good attorney is even more crucial.
When a teen arrives at juvenile hall, the probation department decides whether to book. Teens are usually only booked when the charges are severe. In other cases, they’re released back into the custody of their parents. If booked for a severe crime, the teen will remain at the juvenile center throughout the court process. If convicted, sentencing may require more time in detainment.
The Consequences of a Juvenile Conviction: Will a Teen Crime Show on an Adult Record?
California law prevents employers from accessing juvenile criminal history. However, this doesn’t mean a teen won’t face serious consequences after a conviction. Along with possible time in a juvenile center, there may be trouble with future background checks. Serious juvenile convictions may show up on a background check.
A judge may decide to expunge or seal the teen’s records. This usually doesn’t occur until years later, so the teen may still face consequences, such as missing out on educational opportunities.
A Brief History of Child Imprisonment: Can a Minor Face Adult Court?
In 2018, Governor Jerry Brown signedSenate Bill 1391 into law. This made it illegal to prosecute teens age 14 or 15 as adults.
There is also Senate Bill 439, which bars criminal prosecution of children younger than 12 unless murder or rape has occurred.
It’s possible for an underage teen to face adult court if:
- They were 16 or older when the crime occurred.
- There are felony offenses, such murder, rape, or assault with a deadly weapon.
- The prosecutor requests a transfer to adult court.
Avoiding adult court doesn’t mean the teen won’t suffer consequences. If you or your child are facing charges, you need a quality Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense attorney.
Your Trusted Rancho Cucamonga Criminal Defense Lawyer: Contact Newman & Allen
You don’t need to handle this difficult situation alone. Newman & Allen is here to help. With more than 40 years of combined experience, we’re prepared to fight for juveniles in crisis. Pleasecontact us now to get started.