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Escondido Juvenile Crime Defense Attorneys

Protecting the Rights of Minors in San Diego County

In the case of a minor being accused of a crime, it is important to remember that they aren't adults. Rather than punishing young offenders, the juvenile justice system aims to rehabilitate them. This does not, however, mean that juvenile crime convictions do not have serious consequences. The impact of a conviction can last for a lifetime, affecting a young person's ability to get into college, find a job, etc. Take your child's arrest seriously and seek legal representation if he or she has been charged with a crime.

At Sterger Law Group, our Escondido juvenile crime defense lawyers are committed to helping young people and their families navigate the criminal justice system. We understand the unique challenges that minors face when they are accused of crimes, and we know how to effectively advocate for their rights and futures. Our team is available to answer your questions and address your concerns throughout the legal process. We offer compassionate, personalized legal services and aggressive representation in the courtroom.

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Call (760) 280-7900 now to speak with our experienced juvenile crime defense attorneys. Contact us for a free consultation today!

What Is Juvenile Delinquency?

In California, a minor who is accused of a crime is not charged with a crime; instead, they are accused of “delinquency.” 

There are three main types of juvenile delinquency cases in California:

  • Delinquency petitions: These are the most common type of juvenile delinquency case. A delinquency petition is filed when a minor is accused of committing a crime that would be a crime if committed by an adult. The minor is then referred to as a “juvenile delinquent.”
  • Status offenses: These are crimes that only minors can commit, such as truancy, curfew violations, and underage drinking. A minor who is accused of a status offense is referred to as a “juvenile offender.”
  • Dependent children: A minor who is abused, neglected, or abandoned by their parents or guardian may be declared a “dependent child.” In these cases, the court will determine what is in the best interests of the child and may remove them from their home.

It is important to note that, in California, a minor is anyone who is under the age of 18. However, certain minors who are at least 14 years old may be tried as adults for certain serious crimes. This is known as “direct filing.”

The Phases of a Juvenile Delinquency Case in California

There are three phases of a juvenile delinquency case in California: 

  • Detention Hearing and Arraignment: The juvenile court decides whether or not to detain the minor in juvenile hall at the end of this hearing; it informs the minor of the criminal charges against him or her. The court decides whether to detain a minor in the juvenile hall since there is no bail in juvenile cases.
  • Jurisdictional Hearing: Juvenile court hearings are the equivalent of adult court trials. In the case of a juvenile hall inmate, the hearing must be held within 15 days of the detention hearing. It is required that the jurisdictional hearing takes place within 30 days following the detention hearing if the child is not detained. Child defense attorneys and the child must decide whether or not to follow these deadlines if the child waives time. This is a strategic decision.
  • Disposition Hearing: The hearing is similar to a sentencing hearing in adult court. Based on the facts of the case, the court determines what the "disposition" (or sentence) will be for the child during this hearing. It is common for juvenile cases in Los Angeles County not to go to trial and instead settle through agreements between the District Attorney and the juvenile defense attorney. It is therefore common for the "jurisdictional hearing" and the "disposition hearing" to take place simultaneously.

Penalties for Juvenile Crimes in California

As mentioned above, the juvenile justice system is designed to rehabilitate young offenders, not punish them. As such, the penalties for juvenile crimes are generally less severe than those for adult crimes. However, this does not mean that a conviction is not serious. In fact, a juvenile crime conviction can have a lasting impact on a young person’s life.

Some of the penalties for juvenile crimes in California include:

  • Probation
  • Community service
  • Restitution
  • Participation in a diversion program
  • Participation in a counseling or treatment program
  • Participation in a work program
  • Participation in a drug or alcohol program
  • Participation in a victim impact program
  • Participation in a driver’s education program
  • Participation in a residential treatment program
  • Participation in a juvenile detention facility
  • Participation in a juvenile correctional facility

It is important to note that, in some cases, a minor may be required to serve time in a juvenile detention facility or a juvenile correctional facility. In some cases, a minor may even be tried as an adult and face the same penalties as an adult.

How a Juvenile Crime Defense Lawyer in California Can Assist You

If your child has been accused of a crime, it is important that you take the matter seriously and seek experienced legal representation. At Sterger Law Group, our Escondido juvenile crime defense attorneys can help you understand your child’s rights and legal options. We can also help you navigate the legal process and fight to protect your child’s future.

Our team can help you with all types of juvenile crime cases, including those involving:

When you turn to Sterger Law Group, you can trust that we will provide you with the personalized legal services you need and deserve. We will take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and address your concerns. Our team will then work to build a strong defense strategy on your behalf. We will fight to protect your child’s rights and future every step of the way.

Juvenile Detention vs. Juvenile Correctional Facilities

Understanding the differences between juvenile detention centers and juvenile correctional facilities is important for parents and guardians navigating the juvenile justice system.

  • Juvenile Detention Centers: These are temporary facilities where minors are held after being arrested and before their court hearings. The purpose of detention is to ensure the juvenile appears in court and to protect the community if needed. It’s often short-term, lasting until the court date.
  • Juvenile Correctional Facilities: These facilities are designed for minors who have been convicted of more serious offenses or who have repeated offenses. Juveniles in correctional facilities are typically placed for a longer period, with a focus on rehabilitation through education, therapy, and work programs.

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Don’t wait—call (760) 280-7900 to discuss your case with our trusted Escondido juvenile defense lawyers. Contact us now for immediate assistance.

Rights of Minors in Juvenile Facilities

Minors in juvenile facilities are still entitled to basic rights, including:

  • Visitation Rights: Families are generally allowed to visit their children in detention or correctional facilities, but they must follow specific visitation rules.
  • Access to Legal Counsel: Minors have the right to have an attorney represent them throughout the process, and they can consult with their attorney at any time.
  • Basic Needs: Juveniles have the right to be treated humanely and receive necessities like food, shelter, and medical care.

The Role of Parents in Juvenile Crime Cases

Parents play a crucial role in their child’s juvenile crime case, both legally and emotionally.

  • Parental Responsibilities and Rights: Parents can advocate for their child in court and may be able to seek rehabilitation programs, treatment options, or alternative sentences instead of incarceration. They also have the right to attend court hearings and be involved in decisions made for their child’s future.
  • Impact on Family Dynamics: Juvenile crime cases can be stressful and emotionally taxing for the entire family. Parents may face difficult decisions and experience emotional strain. Seeking support from family counselors, legal professionals, or support groups can help parents cope during this time.

By understanding the legal processes, available defense strategies, and the support systems in place, parents can better navigate juvenile crime cases and work toward a positive outcome for their child.

FAQ: Juvenile Crime Defense in Escondido

  • What happens if my child is arrested for a crime?
    If your child is arrested, they will be taken to a juvenile detention center, where they may remain until a court hearing. It's important to seek legal representation immediately to ensure their rights are protected and to understand the next steps in the juvenile justice process.
  • Can my child be tried as an adult in California?
    In California, minors aged 14 and older can be tried as adults for certain serious crimes such as murder, certain sexual offenses, and violent felonies. However, the court will consider factors such as the minor’s age, mental state, and criminal history before deciding.
  • What are the potential consequences of a juvenile crime conviction?
    A conviction in juvenile court can result in probation, counseling, community service, or time in a juvenile correctional facility. While juvenile cases are focused on rehabilitation, a conviction can still have lasting consequences, such as difficulty obtaining employment or enrolling in school.
  • How can a juvenile crime defense attorney help?
    A juvenile crime defense attorney can provide guidance on the legal process, advocate for alternatives to incarceration, challenge evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors. Their goal is to minimize the impact of the charges and work toward the best possible outcome for your child.
  • What is a diversion program?
    A diversion program offers an alternative to formal prosecution for minors accused of crimes. It typically includes educational programs, counseling, or community service, with the aim of rehabilitating the minor and avoiding a criminal record.
  • Can my child’s case be dismissed?
    In some cases, it may be possible to get the case dismissed or reduce the charges through negotiations or by proving that the minor did not commit the offense. Your juvenile crime defense attorney will explore every option to ensure the best possible outcome.
  • How long does the juvenile court process take?
    The timeline for a juvenile court case can vary depending on the severity of the charges and the specific circumstances. The process may take several weeks or even months. Your attorney can provide a more accurate estimate based on your child’s case.

Request a Free Consultation on Juvenile Crimes in Escondido

If your child has been accused of a crime, it is important that you take the matter seriously and seek experienced legal representation. At Sterger Law Group, our Escondido juvenile crime defense lawyers are committed to helping young people and their families navigate the criminal justice system. 

Facing Juvenile Crime Charges?
Call (760) 280-7900 to schedule your free consultation with our expert legal team. Contact us today and let us help protect your child’s future.

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