Juvenile Lawyer Knowledgeable in PA Law
Are you the parent or guardian of a child who is facing the prospect of legal consequences? It would be best if you had an experienced attorney who understands the complicated structure of juvenile law. Youths accused of criminal offenses have numerous protections and considerations in place. Still, you need legal counsel to ensure you know how these protections interact with accusations and the legal process.
This is where attorney Michael Marinaro enters the picture. Michael and the offices of Marinaro Law offer decades of experience as juvenile lawyers and legal counsel for young people. If you find the legal process daunting or intimidating, trust a lawyer who is experienced and knowledgeable in the field!
Juvenile Delinquents Still Face Consequences
People who break the law under the age of 18, as a consequence of their age, are not considered to be ‘criminals’ but instead, ‘juvenile delinquents.’ This does not mean that there are no consequences for delinquent acts. For particularly severe offenses, some juveniles could be tried as adults and face the same sentencing guidelines, which can be devastating for a young life.
Typically, however, juveniles go through a system different from the adult criminal justice system, one that is aimed at correcting the behavior while preventing further offenses and allowing the juvenile a chance to make better decisions in the future. This alternative system requires an experienced juvenile lawyer to navigate.
What Are Some Typical Juvenile Offenses?
Juvenile offenses may be unique due to the alleged offender’s age, or they may be the same as adult offenses:
- Truancy
- Vandalism
- Shoplifting
- Curfew violations
- Drug possession
- Underage drinking
- Assault
The goal of juvenile criminal justice is rehabilitation and correction, ideally setting the alleged offender onto a better path. This is why truancy and drinking, which may result in poorer outcomes for adulthood, are juvenile offenses. The other common juvenile offenses are classified and dealt with according to whether the same offense, if committed by an adult, would be considered a crime.
Adjudication
Juvenile offenses don’t go through a traditional trial but rather a process known as ‘adjudication.’ During adjudication, there is no jury, only a district attorney of the commonwealth, the child’s defense attorney, and a judge. If the judge determines that consequences are appropriate, they will hold a disposition hearing to decide on what these consequences will be.
Because of the potential for rehabilitation, juveniles often have greater sentencing alternatives than adults. Common sentences for juvenile offenders include probation, community service, drug treatment, or another alternative to fines and incarceration. With a juvenile lawyer providing legal advice and counsel, your loved one may be able to avoid harsher sentences and maintain their freedom.
Preserve A Young Future By Connecting With Our Firm
A youthful offense need not lead to a lifetime of consequences. This experience may deter employers, prevent school acceptance, and cause social turmoil – all in addition to legal consequences. If your child is facing juvenile charges in Pennsylvania, contact an experienced juvenile lawyer to help them back onto a productive path. To speak to one of the attorneys at our Lancaster office, call Marinaro Law at 717-397-7055 or toll free at 866-614-6520, or email us.
