NEW JERSEY JUVENILE CRIMES LAWYER

We all know juveniles make mistakes.  However, when the criminal justice system
gets involved, it is important to protect the legal rights of your children as
the consequences of these mistakes can potentially have lifetime
consequences.  Consulting with an
experienced New Jersey Juvenile Crimes Lawyer as early in the juvenile criminal
process as possible is very important in order to protect the legal rights of
your children.

Free Consultations Available – (908) 358-2938

In New Jersey, juveniles (those under the age of 18) are
generally not charged with crimes.
Juveniles are charged with Acts of Delinquency.  Acts of Delinquency are offenses that would
be considered criminal if performed by an adult.

Common Acts of Delinquency

• CDS/Drug possession and distribution
• Drug paraphernalia
• Underage drinking
• Assault
• Theft or shoplifting
• Criminal mischief
• Weapons possession
• Burglary
• Robbery
• Disorderly conduct
• Eluding the police
• Resisting arrest
• Harassment
• Domestic violence
• Terroristic threats
• Public intoxication
• Destruction of Property

Juvenile Criminal Process

Juvenile criminal cases are handled differently and
depend upon the nature of the charge.  Minor
offenses can sometimes be handled by parents and the police without the filing
of a delinquency complaint.  In cases
involving more significant offenses, a delinquency complaint is filed with the
Family Division of the Superior Court.
In those cases, an attorney is required unless the case is referred to a
Juvenile Conference Committee, which is a panel of individuals that handle the
case informally. Therefore, it is important to consult with an experienced New
Jersey Juvenile Crimes Lawyer as early in the juvenile criminal process as
possible.  Juveniles have the right to
remain silent.  However, parents can
waive that right.  It is important for
parents to consult with an attorney before waiving a juvenile’s right to remain
silent.

If the case proceeds to the Family Division, there is one
important difference between adult court and juvenile court.  In juvenile court, there is no right to a
trial by jury.  The case is decided by a
judge.  In addition, the sentencing is
usually handled the same judge if there is an adjudication (conviction).

Penalties for Acts of Delinquency

• Fines
• Restitution
• Out-Patient Counseling
• Detention in a Residential Counseling Program
• Probation
• Community Service
• Incarceration

With respect to incarceration, the term of incarceration
differs from that of the adult criminal justice system.  First degree crimes may result in 4 years
incarceration (not including murder).
Second degree crimes may result in 3 years incarceration.  Third degree crimes may result in 2 years
incarceration.  Fourth degree crimes may
result in 1 year of incarceration.

Juveniles Charged as Adults

In some cases, juveniles can be charged as adults.  If a juvenile is charged as an adult, the
consequences are extremely severe and can result in many years of imprisonment,
which is another reason to consult with an attorney as early in the process as
possible.

New Jersey Juvenile Crimes Lawyer – (908) 358-2938

The Sloan Law Firm handles juvenile criminal cases in Union County, Middlesex County, Morris County, Somerset County, Essex County and throughout New Jersey.  The firm will aggressively fight to obtain the best possible result available to your child, including deferred dispositions.  In certain cases, an experienced New Jersey Juvenile Crimes Attorney may be able to convince the court that a deferred disposition or probation is in the best interest of the juvenile.  A deferred disposition could potentially provide your child with a second chance and avoid a criminal record if certain conditions are met.  If you would like a free initial consultation to discuss your child’s case, call the Sloan Law Firm at: (908) 358-2938.