Oakland County Juvenile Crimes Lawyer
While similar to adult offenses, juvenile crimes require a unique approach that recognizes the developmental differences between adolescents and adults. At HJP Legal, we are committed to protecting the futures of young people confronted with the juvenile justice system.
We understand that mistakes made during youth should not dictate a person's future. Therefore, we passionately advocate for alternative resolutions focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Our approaches include diversion programs and deferred or alternative sentencing, which allow the juvenile to avoid formal charging by completing specific requirements. We also seek counseling services to address underlying issues, educational programs to ensure continued personal growth, and other tailored solutions aimed at helping young individuals learn from their mistakes without enduring harsh penalties or time in custody.
We can help youth and their families explore all available options that enable positive change, growth, and a better future.
Learn more about your case and options in a consultation with our Oakland County juvenile crimes attorney. Phone us at (734) 593-1688 or email us from our online contact form. Attorney Peters is licensed in Michigan, Florida & California.
Why Choose HJP Legal?
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Strategic Advice & RepresentationAttorney Halley J. Peters is well-versed in ensuring your legal rights are protected throughout the legal process. They will ensure that the evidence being used against you is obtained legally and within legal boundaries.
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Minimize PenaltiesCriminal charges can have severe consequences, including losing certain rights, massive fines and penalty fees, and potential incarceration. A skilled criminal defense attorney like Halley J. Peters can help to minimize these penalties or even fight to get the charges dismissed entirely.
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Clear Communication & TransparencyHalley is here for you every step of the way. She keeps her clients informed and up to date on important developments in their cases, and is readily available to answer any questions or address any concerns that may arise.
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Legal ExpertiseHalley is an experienced criminal defense attorney with the knowledge, skills, and resources to handle your criminal case. She understands the legal procedures and tactics of the prosecution, allowing her to provide you with the best defense.
Overview of Juvenile Crimes in Michigan
Michigan classifies individuals under the age of 17 as juveniles. This means that young people who are 16 years old and younger who commit criminal offenses are generally handled within the juvenile justice system rather than being automatically processed through the adult criminal system.
In certain serious offenses, juveniles can be tried as adults, but this decision is made based on the specifics of the case, including the nature of the offense, the juvenile's age, and their prior criminal history. This differentiation reflects the state's commitment to rehabilitation and providing age-appropriate interventions to steer young people away from a future of crime.
Common Juvenile Offenses
Juveniles can commit the same crimes as adults. However, most juvenile crimes are of a lesser severity.
Common juvenile crimes include:
- Vandalism: Damaging or defacing property and graffiti.
- Shoplifting and petty theft: Unlawfully taking items from stores or stealing small items.
- Joyriding: Taking a vehicle without the intention to deprive the owner of it permanently.
- Underage drinking: Possession of alcohol, which may include the use of a fake ID.
- Underage DUI: Driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
- Simple assault: Minor physical confrontations.
- Drug offenses: Possession or distribution of controlled substances.
- Trespassing: Entering property without permission.
- Disorderly conduct: This may include offensive language or behavior in public, loitering, or disturbing the peace.
- Internet crimes: This can include sexting (sending or receiving sexually explicit messages) or cyberbullying.
Understanding the Juvenile Justice System
The juvenile justice system in Michigan is designed to rehabilitate rather than punish, focusing on preventing future crimes.
The process typically includes the following steps:
- Intake: A juvenile court officer evaluates the case to decide if it should be dismissed, handled informally, or referred to juvenile court.
- Diversion: The case may be diverted from the formal court process, leading to programs or community service instead of a trial for minor offenses.
- Petition: If the case is severe, a petition is filed, leading to formal charges.
- Adjudication: This is similar to a trial but generally less formal, in which the juvenile court judge decides whether the juvenile is to be judged "responsible" (equivalent to "guilty" in adult court) for the offenses.
- Disposition: If the juvenile is found responsible, the judge determines the appropriate treatment, ranging from probation to placement in a juvenile detention facility.