
Crimes committed by children are fall under the jurisdiction of juvenile law. Typically a juvenile is defined as eighteen (18) years of age or younger, but the maximum age can vary from state to state. A juvenile can be charged by federal, state or local governments if a crime has been committed. These crimes can range in severity from traffic violations to felonies such as rape and murder.
Juveniles have the same rights as an adult would have if accused of the same crimes such as the right to remain silent, the right to cross-examine witnesses against them, and the right to be represented by an attorney. In most states, juveniles have the right to have their records closed to the public in an effort to preserve your child’s innocence and reputation. We understand kids make mistakes and by seeking the counsel of an experienced Phoenix juvenile crime defense lawyer at Beauchamp Law Office, you can be certain we are not here to judge, we are here to help and protect your child’s rights.
Juvenile court was founded on the idea to teach a lifelong lesson and not to necessarily for the purpose of punishing. If a juvenile has committed a crime, that juvenile is "adjudicated" and not "convicted". If incarcerated for his/her actions, the juvenile will most likely serve a lesser sentence than if tried as an adult. Most states require juvenile offenders be released from upon becoming an adult. In most cases, a juvenile adjudication will generally not count as a conviction nor have impact future employment.
In the last year alone many states haves attempted to reshape juvenile courts in order to mirror adult courts and enforce stricter punishments when a crime is considered to be so heinous the child is believed to deserve to face the consequences of an adult court. With the help of an experienced Phoenix juvenile crime defense attorney at Beauchamp Law Office, we can thoroughly explain and evaluate your child's case to make sure he/she is not tried as an adult.
Lawyer's involved in a juvenile justice process must follow a set of complex rules and procedures to ensure a child receives a fair trial. Although juvenile court is often less formal than adult court, the procedures are still difficult for many to understand. At Beauchamp Law Office, we provide each and every client with a team of experienced juvenile crime defense attorneys who know how to effectively navigate the intricacies of the juvenile justice system. If your child has committed a crime in Phoenix or the surrounding areas of Arizona, it’s vital to contact an attorney immediately, even before your child is questioned by police. At the time of arrest, police MUST inform your child that they have a right to an attorney and if they cannot afford an attorney one can be appointed to them. Failure to do so could result in a case dismissal for your child.
If a juvenile is adjudged to be guilty of a juvenile crime in Phoenix, the following types of sentencing may be faced:
A qualified Phoenix juvenile defense attorney at Beauchamp Law Office can work with the prosecutor to negotiate a deal that can extend the lowest possible sentence for your child.
At Beauchamp Law Office we know that being accused of a crime can be terrifying and stressful, even in the most minor of incidences. Seeking the counsel of an experienced Phoenix juvenile crime defense attorney is your best opportunity at effectively and aggressively defending your child’s case and receiving a lesser sentencing.
If your child has been charged with committing a crime, do not delay in contacting an experienced juvenile defense attorney at Beauchamp Law Office today.