Fairfield Juvenile Attorney

Was Your Child Arrested in Solano or Contra Costa County? 

Even though the vast majority of juvenile crimes are similar to those for adult offenders, the laws, penalties, and legal process associated with them are substantially different. The most significant differences are juveniles are not entitled to a trial by jury nor are they allowed to be released on bail. Instead, they will have their case heard before a judge in a juvenile court. If you are able to secure the services of an experienced Fairfield juvenile attorney, you may be able to seek non-incarceration alternatives for your child and fight to keep their charges sealed from the public.

Are you the parent or guardian of a child who has been charged with one of the following crimes?

• Underage drinking
• Theft
• Truancy
• Drug crimes
• Vandalism
• Arson

Is your child facing criminal charges? Protect your child's future today.
 Learn more during a FREE consultation.

Penalties for Juvenile Convictions in California

While juvenile cases follow a different process than adult cases, they should still be taken very seriously. From being placed in a juvenile detention center and losing their freedom to having their educational or career dreams damaged, individuals may be facing a variety of penalties. Having a criminal record, even as a juvenile, is a problematic issue. It can often be expunged when they turn into an adult, but this is often a costly process and many people are not able to afford it. Take steps to protect your child's future by working with a Fairfield juvenile attorney immediately.

When Can a Juvenile Be Tried as an Adult in California?

In the state of California, a juvenile can be tried as an adult in particular circumstances. The determination to charge a minor as an adult is typically made by a judge, who will consider several factors, including the minor's age, the severity of the particular offense, the minor's criminal history, and other elements that may be relevant to the case. Under California law, a minor at the age of 16 years or older can be tried as an adult if he or she is accused of committing serious crimes, which can include murder, arson, robbery, certain sex offenses, or other violent offenses. In addition, if the minor is 14 or 15 years old and is accused of committing one of the serious offenses that are listed above, the prosecution could also pursue having the minor tried as an adult.

Protect Your Child's Future in Contra Costa County

At The Maher Law Group, APC, we have an in-depth knowledge of the juvenile legal system and we know what it takes to get your child the help that they need through rehabilitation rather than placement in a state facility. When you hire us, we work to prevent them from being caught up in the vicious cycle of our criminal justice system, offer them support, and help them return to society as soon as possible. Whether your child is guilty or not, a detention center is, in our opinion, rarely the correct solution.

Find out what we can do to help your child. Contact (888) 744-3057 to reach our Fairfield juvenile lawyer.