Los Angeles Juvenile Crimes Defense Attorneys

What is a Juvenile Crime?

Juvenile crime refers to criminal activities committed by individuals who are minors, typically under the age of 18. Juvenile crimes are handled differently from adult crimes due to the age of the offender and the recognition that juveniles may not fully understand the consequences of their actions or have fully developed decision-making capabilities.

In California, common types of juvenile crimes include:

• Shoplifting/Theft: This includes stealing items from stores or individuals.
• Vandalism: Deliberate destruction or defacement of property.
• Assault and Battery: Physical attacks or threats against others.
• Drug Possession or Distribution: Possession or sale of illegal substances such as marijuana, cocaine, or prescription drugs.
• Gang-Related Offenses: Participation in gang activities, including vandalism, assault, or drug trafficking.
• Burglary: Unlawful entry into a building with the intent to commit theft or another crime.
• Sexual Offenses: This can include sexual assault, statutory rape, or possession/distribution of child pornography.
• Underage Drinking: Consumption of alcohol by individuals under the legal drinking age.
• Cybercrimes: This includes activities such as hacking, cyberbullying, or online harassment.
• Driving Offenses: This can include driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, or driving without a license.

What Makes Juvenile Cases Unique?

Many people may be unaware of how the juvenile courts work. They function very differently from regular state or federal courts.

For example:

• In juvenile court, there is no jury
• Cases are decided by a judge only
• Minors may not be freed on bail, but a detention hearing will be held to determine if he or she will be released
• A prosecutor will decide if the charge will be tried as a felony or a misdemeanor

What Are My Child’s Rights When Being Interrogated by Police?

In California, minors have specific rights when being interrogated by the police, which are aimed at protecting their interests and ensuring fair treatment. These rights typically include:

• The Right to Remain Silent: Just like adults, minors have the right to remain silent and not answer questions posed by law enforcement. They should be informed of this right before any questioning begins.
• The Right to Legal Representation: Minors have the right to have an attorney present during questioning. If they cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to them.
• The Right to Know the Nature of the Interrogation: Minors must be informed of the nature of the interrogation and the reason they are being questioned.
• Parental Notification: In California, before interrogating a minor, law enforcement is generally required to notify the minor’s parent or legal guardian, unless there are exceptional circumstances where such notification could jeopardize the investigation or the minor’s safety.
• The Right to Understand the Consequences of Waiving Rights: If a minor chooses to waive their rights, they must fully understand the consequences of doing so. This often involves ensuring that they comprehend the legal implications of their statements and the potential outcomes of the interrogation.
• Protection Against Coercion and Duress: Minors cannot be coerced or forced into making statements against their will. Law enforcement must conduct interrogations in a manner that respects the minor’s age and understanding.
• Recording of Interrogations: While not explicitly stated as a right for minors, California law does require the electronic recording of custodial interrogations in certain serious felony cases. This measure aims to ensure transparency and accuracy in the interrogation process.

Defending Your Child’s Future

The impact a criminal record will have on your child’s future cannot be overstated, as well, as it can prevent them from graduating high school, getting into college, and holding down a job for the rest of their lives. It is essential that you hire the best attorney you can for your child’s defense. The experienced team at Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP is here to fight for you.

Here’s how we can help:

• Legal Representation: We provide experienced and dedicated legal representation for minors throughout the entire legal process. From the initial consultation to courtroom representation, we stand by our clients every step of the way.
• Thorough Case Evaluation: We conduct a thorough evaluation of the case, examining all the evidence and circumstances surrounding the charges. This allows us to develop a strategic defense tailored to the specific needs of the minor.
• Protection of Rights: We ensure that your child’s rights are fully protected throughout the legal proceedings. This includes advising them of their rights, such as the right to remain silent and the right to legal representation, and making sure those rights are respected by law enforcement and the court.
• Negotiation and Advocacy: We engage in negotiation with prosecutors to seek favorable outcomes for our clients, such as reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. We advocate vigorously on behalf your child to achieve the best possible resolution to their case.
• Courtroom Representation: If the case goes to trial, we provide skilled courtroom representation, presenting a compelling defense on behalf of your loved one. Our attorneys are experienced trial advocates who know how to effectively argue for our clients’ interests in court.
• Support and Guidance: We understand that facing juvenile charges can be a daunting experience for minors and their families. We provide compassionate support and guidance throughout the process, helping our clients navigate the legal system with confidence.

When looking for a criminal defense attorney for your child, you need an attorney who handles each case aggressively, efficiently, and with compassion. At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, we understand the sensitivities of a juvenile criminal case, and how extremely important it is to provide your child with the best defense possible. We have over 50 years of combined experience handling juvenile cases, and attorney Mark Lessem in particular has specialized experience in juvenile defense.

Contact our firm immediately if your son or daughter is facing juvenile crime charges. These charges can have a devastating effect on their future!