Experienced Attorneys for Minors in Legal Trouble
If your child has been accused of a criminal offense, it is crucial that he or she be represented by a lawyer as soon as possible. Most parents are surprised that a police officer can interview their child outside of the presence of either parents or children and obtain sworn statements and confessions that are admissible at trial. The juvenile justice system is designed to create some opportunities for positive intervention in children's lives. On the other hand, juvenile judges can also impose serious consequences on minors who are found to be responsible for offenses.
At Connolly & Shireman in Houston, juvenile law is a significant part of our practice. We regularly guide parents and children through this unique system, pursuing positive results. To schedule an appointment with one of our experienced juvenile law attorneys, contact us today.
Understanding the Potential Consequences
When minors are accused of offenses that would be considered crimes if they were committed by an adult, or when minors are accused of specific juvenile delinquency offenses, their cases are handled in the juvenile courts under juvenile law, a unique legal practice area. The range of offenses that can land children in juvenile court include:
- Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle (sometimes known as "joyriding")
- Shoplifting and theft
- Burglary
- Drug possession
- Weapons possession
- Assault and aggravated assault
- Sexual offenses
- Murder, including capital murder
The juvenile law process provides certain alternatives to incarceration and other types of flexibility that are designed to protect the unique interests of children and are not available in adult criminal court. However, these offenses can result in a childs incarceration for extended periods of time.
In Texas, children can be sent to prison for up to 40 years by the juvenile courts. They can also be subjected to mandatory sex offender registration. Juveniles can also be certified to stand trial as adults, making them eligible for the full range of criminal penalties (except capital punishment).
Devoted to Helping Children Get Help and Support
Attorney William B. Connolly is the 2009-2010 Chair of the Juvenile Law Section of the State Bar of Texas. He is experienced at defending children against juvenile charges. We represent minors throughout the juvenile trial and appellate process.
We always emphasize the fact that our clients are children who have their whole lives ahead of them, who have limited judgment and who are supposed to be treated differently than adults. Many of our clients have addiction and other mental health issues, and we are often able to seek treatment for those issues as alternatives to harsh punishment.
If your child is in trouble, don't hesitate to contact us to discuss your options.
