San Antonio Juvenile Defense Attorneys
Protecting Your Child’s Freedom & Future
Has your son or daughter been arrested for a criminal offense? This is every parent’s nightmare and can lead to ongoing family anxiety about what will happen next and how it will affect your child’s future. If you are facing this situation, our legal team can help.
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we are here to provide competent and caring legal assistance to ensure that your child is treated fairly throughout the entire juvenile criminal process. Our aim is to provide the highest-quality legal representation and, when it comes to minors, we know how important that is for your child’s future. We always work aggressively to seek a favorable resolution.
Get the legal help you need by contacting us at (210) 960-9557 today.
Juvenile Offenses in Texas
It is important to remember that, in the juvenile justice system, rehabilitation is preferred over punishment. However, as in all criminal cases, the consequences are generally based on the nature of the offense.
In this system, a juvenile offense refers to any crime committed by a minor between the ages of 10 and 16. In the case of a minor offense, a child will often receive only a warning. In some cases, however, the child’s case may be turned over to a probation officer. For offenses of a more serious nature, actual criminal charges may be filed against the child by the district attorney.
Your Child Has Rights
When a minor is taken into custody, it must be reported to the child’s parents. The child is then given the opportunity to make two phone calls to parents or guardians. Just as in the case of adults, minors are protected by Constitutional rights. These rights include the right to remain silent.
Parents’ Rights
It is your right as a parent to visit your son or daughter once he or she is placed in a juvenile facility. You are allowed to have a private conversation and you must be informed about any proceedings that may follow regarding your child’s case.
The Delinquency Petition
The majority of juvenile cases are conducted through what is called the delinquency petition. A hearing will be held in which a juvenile judge will determine the innocence or guilt of your child’s actions. Should the judge conclude that your child actually committed the offense for which he or she has been accused, the judge will then make an adjudication about how best to sentence the child.
Certification as an Adult
A child may be tried as an adult he if or she:
- Is 14 or older
- Committed a particularly serious crime
- Has a history of juvenile crimes
A hearing before a judge will be held to determine if, in the best interests of justice, the child should be tried as an adult. After a full investigation into the child’s case, the judge will issue a certification as an adult only in instances where it is found necessary.
San Antonio Juvenile Crime Lawyers
Smith & Vinson Law Firm always takes juvenile charges seriously. We are fearless fighters when it comes to protecting a child's constitutional rights. If your child is in trouble, do not hesitate to contact us to discuss the situation. We will always help you seek a favorable resolution for your child’s case.
Contact our office today for a free initial consultation. Call us at (210) 960-9557.
