In Florida, juveniles who are arrested for crimes are tried in a separate court system from adults. This is done in order to protect their rights and ensure that they are given a fair trial. The juvenile justice system is designed to provide rehabilitation rather than punishment, and to help young offenders get back on the right track. Juvenile crimes involve any illegal act committed by a person under the age of 18.
In Florida, the most common juvenile crimes include:
Truancy
A student between the ages of 6 and 16 who fails to attend school as required by law can be charged with truancy. For a first offense, the student will be referred to a truancy intervention program. If the student does not successfully complete the program, he or she can be charged with a misdemeanor and may be sentenced to community service or placed on probation. The student may also be required to pay a fine.
Underage Drinking
It is illegal for a person under the age of 21 to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol in Florida. A first offense is a non-criminal violation and is punishable by a fine of up to $500. A second offense is a misdemeanor and is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and up to 60 days in jail. A third offense is a felony and is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and up to 5 years in prison.
Curfew Violations
Most cities in Florida have laws that prohibit minors from being out in public after a certain time of night. The curfew hour varies from city to city, but is typically between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. A violation of the curfew is a non-criminal offense and is punishable by a fine of up to $500.
Trespassing
Trespassing is defined as entering or remaining on someone else’s property without their permission. It is a criminal offense if the trespasser knows that he or she does not have permission to be on the property. Trespassing is punishable by a fine of up to $500 and up to 60 days in jail.
Vandalism
Vandalism is the intentional destruction of property belonging to someone else. It is a criminal offense and is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and up to 1 year in jail.
Graffiti
Graffiti is defined as any unauthorized markings on public or private property. It is a criminal offense and is punishable by a fine of up to $500 and up to 60 days in jail.
Other Common Juvenile Crimes in Florida
Other common juvenile crimes include shoplifting, joyriding, and possession of marijuana. Each of these offenses is punishable by a fine and/or jail time.
If you have been charged with any of the above juvenile crimes, it is important that you seek experienced legal representation as soon as possible. You should attain the services of a good criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater, Florida who will be able to help you navigate the juvenile justice system and ensure that you are given a fair trial.
What a Florida Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Can Do For You
- Investigate the Charges Against You
Your lawyer will investigate the charges against you and look for any holes in the prosecution’s case. This may involve talking to witnesses, reviewing police reports, and examining physical evidence. If your lawyer can find enough evidence to prove your innocence, the charges against you may be dropped.
- Negotiate with the Prosecution
If the evidence against you is strong, your lawyer may be able to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution. The terms of the plea deal will depend on the severity of the crime and your prior criminal history. For example, the prosecution may agree to reduce the charges against you or recommend a lighter sentence in exchange for a guilty plea.
- Mount a Defense
If you go to trial, your lawyer will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf. He or she will cross-examine witnesses, challenge evidence, and make persuasive arguments to the jury. If your lawyer is successful, you may be acquitted of the charges against you.
- Appeal a Guilty Verdict
If you are found guilty, your lawyer may be able to file an appeal on your behalf. This is a complicated legal process, but it may result in a reversal of the verdict or a new trial. The chances of success on appeal are usually very low, but it is worth a try if you believe that you were wrongfully convicted.
- Get the Best Possible Outcome
No matter what stage of the juvenile justice process you are in, your lawyer will work to get the best possible outcome for you. If the charges against you are dropped, he or she will make sure that your record is expunged. If you are found guilty, your lawyer will strive to get you the lightest sentence possible.
- Protect Your Rights
Throughout the juvenile justice process, it is important to remember that you have rights. Your lawyer will make sure that your rights are protected at every step of the way. He or she will also keep you informed of your rights and explain what is happening in your case so that you can make informed decisions.
- Fight for You
When you are facing juvenile charges, it is important to have an experienced lawyer on your side. Your lawyer will fight for you and do everything in his or her power to get you the best possible outcome in your case. Speak with a criminal defense lawyer today to learn more about how he or she can help you.
Juvenile crimes are on the rise in Florida. If you have been charged with a juvenile crime, it is important to seek experienced legal representation as soon as possible. Attorney Will Hanlon is a criminal defense lawyer who has been successfully representing clients in Clearwater, Florida. He has the experience to handle all types of juvenile crimes, including shoplifting, joyriding, and possession of marijuana. Contact Attorney Hanlon today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.
Hanlon Law
600 Cleveland St #1100
Clearwater, FL 33755
(727) 897-5413
https://www.criminalattorneyclearwater.net
