Juvenile Cases
A Michigan juvenile case which involves a criminal charge is referred to as a juvenile delinquency proceeding. When your child who is under age 17 is charged with a crime, the case will be handled by the juvenile court. In certain cases, a juvenile may be tried as an adult. A person charged with a crime at age 17 and beyond is treated as an adult and faces criminal penalties which include incarceration in jail or prison. A youthful offender charged with a crime, age 17 but under 21, may be eligible for special sentencing treatment, known as HYTA. Our firm will aggressively defend your child who faces charges in the juvenile or adult courts.
A juvenile is afforded the same rights as an adult who is charged with a crime. Many aspects of Michigan juvenile delinquency proceedings are similar to adult criminal cases. The Michigan Rules of Evidence and the standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt apply. Juveniles have a right to a trial before a referee, judge or jury.
Common Juvenile Offenses
Here is a partial list of common juvenile offenses in Macomb and Oakland County:
- Minor in Possession of Alcohol (MIP)
- Possession of Fake Identification
- Drug Crimes
- Zero Tolerance, Minor with Blood Alcohol Content while driving a vehicle
- Drunk Driving
- Disorderly Conduct
- Retail Fraud
- Malicious Destruction of Property
If your child is charged with an alcohol crime or drinking and driving offense, he or she may lose driving privileges, be required to pay huge driver responsibility fees and accept other terms of disposition as dictated by the court.
Hire a Lawyer for Your Juvenile
Many job and college applications request complete disclosure of a person's criminal and juvenile history. A conviction on your child's record can be stressful, embarrassing, and an obstacle to getting a job or getting into college.
The ABDO LAW FIRM will assist your family to protect all of your child's rights in Macomb County. In many cases, we can have the charge(s) dismissed by application of special provisions of law. However, if the case cannot be resolved, your child will receive experienced counsel and representation for his or her trial. If your child is in trouble with juvenile authorities, let us help you understand the system and all of your options.
