Philadelphia Juvenile Defense Lawyer

Pennsylvania law is designed with a focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, recognizing that juvenile offenders have a greater capacity for change than adults. This foundational principle shapes the entire juvenile justice process, distinguishing it significantly from the adult system. When a minor is accused of a juvenile crime, the case is typically handled by the Juvenile Court system, which operates under a separate set of guidelines aimed at addressing the root causes of juvenile offenses and promoting positive future behaviors.

One of the key differences between juvenile and adult criminal law is the terminology used. In the juvenile system, minors are not “charged” with crimes but rather are found to have committed a “delinquent act.” Similarly, juvenile courts seek to “adjudicate” rather than convict, and the focus is on “disposition” instead of sentencing. This language reflects the system’s rehabilitative aims.

Families can expect a process that commences with an intake procedure, where a decision is made whether to handle the matter informally or to proceed with formal charges. Should the case move forward, it will go through juvenile adjudication, where a judge determines if the juvenile committed the act. Unlike adult criminal proceedings, there’s typically no jury in juvenile criminal cases. If adjudication results in a finding of juvenile delinquency, the disposition (akin to sentencing in adult court) considers the minor’s best interests, aiming for measures that provide guidance, education, and rehabilitation.

If it is the recommendation of the Commonwealth, a minor can be transferred to adult court for certain criminal offenses. In this case, the juvenile would receive a “summary offense” and be subject to a fine and/or imprisonment if convicted. The juvenile could also have their driver’s license suspended for a period.

The role of the guardians is crucial throughout this process. Guardians are expected to actively participate, from attending hearings to ensuring compliance with court-ordered dispositions. The goal is to involve the family in the juvenile’s rehabilitation, encouraging a supportive environment that fosters positive change.

The Law Offices of E. William Hevenor is dedicated to guiding families through this complex process with the compassion, experience, and commitment needed to advocate for the best possible outcome for your child.

Common Juvenile Offenses

In Philadelphia, as in many urban areas, juvenile offenses cover a broad spectrum of activities, with some of the most common being underage drinking, vandalism, theft, and increasingly, cybercrimes. Each of these offenses carries potential repercussions that can affect a juvenile offender’s future, highlighting the need for a strategic and informed defense.

• Underage Drinking: This is frequently seen among juveniles, often leading to further legal issues when associated with driving or public disturbances. Our defense strategy focuses on mitigating serious penalties while addressing the underlying behaviors through counseling or rehabilitation programs.

• Vandalism: Acts of vandalism, ranging from graffiti to property damage, reflect juveniles grappling with various personal or societal issues. Our approach includes negotiating for restorative justice measures, where the minor can make amends to the affected parties, coupled with advocacy for diversion programs that emphasize community service over punitive actions.

• Disorderly Conduct: A catch-all offense, disorderly conduct covers a wide range of disruptive behaviors, from loitering to fighting and public intoxication. Our defense strategy emphasizes addressing the root cause while negotiating for alternative measures that foster positive change over punishment.

• Drug Offenses: In juvenile cases, charges, such as drug possession, distribution, or being under the influence, are treated with a focus on rehabilitation rather than strict punishment.

• Theft: Whether it’s shoplifting or more serious forms of theft, these cases require a defense that not only seeks to protect the juvenile’s legal rights but also to understand and rectify the motivations behind the act. We work to secure alternatives to detention, like restitution and education-focused interventions, thereby aiming for a resolution that supports rehabilitation.

• Cybercrimes: With the digital age, an increasing number of minors find themselves involved in crimes such as hacking, cyberbullying, or unauthorized access to digital information. These cases are particularly complex due to the technicalities involved. Our defense strategy includes employing experts to challenge evidence and negotiating for participation in programs that channel a minor’s technological abilities into positive avenues.

At the Law Offices of E. William Hevenor, we understand the multidimensional nature of juvenile offenses and the importance of a defense that goes beyond the courtroom. Our strategies are designed to protect the minor’s immediate legal interests while fostering an environment that encourages long-term positive growth and development. Our goal is to intervene in a manner that redirects youthful missteps toward constructive outcomes, ensuring that one mistake does not define a young person’s future.

What To Expect After the Arrest

After a juvenile is arrested and taken into custody, the first step in the process is typically intake. During this stage, the court or juvenile probation officer will gather information about the case and determine whether to handle it informally (with alternative measures like counseling) or to proceed with formal charges through adjudication.

If a minor’s case proceeds to adjudication, they will have a hearing before a judge instead of facing charges from a prosecutor. Unlike adult criminal cases, most juvenile proceedings do not involve juries. Instead, the judge makes decisions based on the evidence presented and considers the best interests of the juvenile offender when determining a disposition.

In addition to legal repercussions, juveniles may face consequences within their school or community, such as suspensions or community service, depending on the nature of the criminal offense. This highlights the importance of seeking a strategic defense that takes into account all potential outcomes and seeks to minimize negative repercussions.

The Importance of a Good Defense

Having an experienced defense attorney is indispensable for safeguarding a young person’s future, particularly in cases that could potentially hinder their opportunities in education, employment, and carrying a permanent criminal record. When a minor faces legal challenges, the stakes are incredibly high; a misstep in the juvenile justice system can have far-reaching consequences that extend well beyond the immediate legal outcomes. An experienced juvenile defense lawyer brings not only a deep understanding of the complex criminal justice system but also a commitment to fighting for a resolution that prioritizes the youth’s long-term well-being.

Education opportunities can be significantly limited by a juvenile record, as certain criminal offenses may lead to expulsion from school or make it challenging to gain acceptance into colleges. A proficient attorney will tirelessly work to ensure that the juvenile’s right to education is not compromised by advocating for alternatives to expulsion or working towards expungement of the juvenile record.

In terms of employment, a criminal record can act as a formidable barrier to securing a job, especially in competitive fields that require background checks. An experienced juvenile criminal attorney can play a crucial role in minimizing the impact of the case on the minor’s future employability, either by working towards a favorable legal outcome that does not result in a criminal record or by pursuing avenues for record expungement.

A criminal record can have a lasting impact on a young person’s life, affecting their eligibility for loans, housing, and even certain professional licenses. A Philadelphia juvenile lawyer with specialized knowledge and experience understands the gravity of these consequences and aims to protect the minor’s future by advocating for outcomes that focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, ensuring that a youthful mistake does not lead to lifelong penalties.