Juvenile Defense

Understandably, children facing potential criminal charges is overwhelming and unsettling for both the parents and their child. It is important to know how to move forward in the legal process, while protecting the child’s future and right for rehabilitation. Attending universities, obtaining future employment, joining the military, etc., is more difficult with a juvenile record. As such, it is vital to speak to an experienced attorney who will take the time to know your child and fight for them, no matter if it is with the school board or the courts. Consult with Rebecca Lively and read through the information below for frequent concerns and questions.  

The Important Questions

  • In the State of Texas, an individual at the age of 10 and under the age 17 can be charged with criminal offenses. According to the legal system, a 17-year-old can be charged as an adult. If your child is facing potential charges, it is important to speak with an attorney to mitigate circumstances and potential long-term consequences.

  • In most cases, a Texas court system assessing punishment CAN assign:

    • FINES. An example of this is in the case of property damages. This will usually involve covering the expenses of what was damaged. It is important to understand that the parents can be responsible for fines based on the age of the child.

    • COMMUNITY SERVICE. This is one of the most common forms of punishments assessed for juveniles.

    • PROBATION. Juveniles may be required to be on probation for a period of time following the offense. The standards held on probation are often circumstantial but often include consistent trips or visits with probation officers and curfews.

    • JUVENILE DETENTION. In cases of repeat offenses, repetitive drug use, or severe offenses, a child may be held in a detention facility for a period of time.

    • PARENTAL CONSEQUENCES. When a juvenile is on probation, Parents may be held to the same conditions set for their child. Parents can also be responsible for reimbursing the county for costs of rehabilitation and juvenile incarceration.

  • Unless the charge is mitigated through Deferred Adjudication, juvenile charges can stay on a child’s permanent record until they are Expunged or the record is sealed through a Petition for Nondisclosure. It is important to understand that only certain crimes are eligible and should be discussed with an attorney.

  • Juvenile law is unique in that it involves elements of both civil law and criminal law. The Texas Juvenile Law system maintains more of a rehabilitative approach rather than punitive but still includes it’s own set of processes, protections, codes, and regulations. Do not let the unknown overwhelm you and consult with Rebecca Lively Law to receive professional understanding.