Knowing that your child is facing charges and possibly a conviction in juvenile court can be frightening to say the least.
Cases involving juvenile crimes can be complex and difficult to deal with, particularly because these matters are handled differently than adult criminal cases in state and federal court. It is important to work with an attorney who is experienced in handling juvenile offenses, as this will help ensure the possibility of a better case resolution. We have over 30 years of trial and former prosecutorial experience. We can accurately assess your legal matter and determine how to best assist you.
You know that your child's future is at risk and that the outcome of this matter may affect him or her for years to come, impacting educational and employment opportunities. People make mistakes, especially young people. We believe that they should get a second chance through rehabilitation rather than punishment.
The purpose of the juvenile justice system is to protect society more effectively by attempting to rehabilitate, not just punish, children who commit crimes. Children, under Maryland law, are persons under the age of 18. Juvenile courts in Maryland work with law enforcement, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services in devising rehabilitation plans for children in trouble with the law. The courts will try to ensure that the child learns from his or her experience and returns to the community as a productive citizen, without having suffered permanent harm.
It is important to know that:
- Children who are referred to the juvenile court have many of the same rights as an adult charged with a crime.
- Children do have the right to consult an attorney before making a statement or answering questions.
- Your child can be taken into custody the county/city jail and held for up to six hours to be fingerprinted and photographed upon a reasonable belief that he or she has committed a crime. These records should be kept separately, are not available to the public, and should be destroyed after a certain period of time has passed. The police are then required to release your child to you, another responsible adult relative, or DJS shall either release your child to you or have him or her detained in a secure juvenile detention facility.
- Certain cases involving serious charges against children 14 and older can go to criminal court. Such cases may be transferred from criminal to juvenile court, and there are also provisions to allow certain juvenile cases to be transferred to criminal court.
If you or your child is under eighteen (18) years of age and has been arrested or is being investigated for a crime, call the Law Offices of Warren A. Brown immediately for a CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION at 410-685-4900 or take a moment to complete our confidential and secure FREE CONSULTATION intake form. The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry.