Can a Juvenile Be Charged With a Felony?

The justice system does not exist to punish young offenders and ruin their lives. The goal is rehabilitation, which means that the system often treats them with more leniency than it would adult offenders. However, this does not mean that young people cannot be held accountable when they commit a serious crime. A juvenile can be charged with a felony. They are likely to need the help of an Astoria criminal defense lawyer.

When Can a Juvenile Be Charged With a Felony?

A juvenile can be charged with a felony when they are accused of doing something particularly transgressive. If they are accused of any of the following crimes, they are likely to face more serious penalties and a felony charge:

• Murder
• Manslaughter
• Attempted murder
• Burglary
• Sexual assault

If your loved one has been charged with any of these crimes, it is imperative that you get them a lawyer who can defend them. Our law firm is prepared to meet with you and discuss this case.

What’s Different About Being Charged With a Felony?

A felony means more serious charges. It also changes how the court process works. Many juvenile offenders can go to family court to have their cases decided. Anyone charged with a felony does not go to family court. Instead, they have to be charged in actual criminal court. A family court can be more sympathetic toward a young offender.

Many types of juvenile crimes can also be wiped off of your record eventually. This is not the case with felony charges or convictions most of the time. These felonies can follow you around for life. Your lawyer also will not be able to argue for a dismissal of the charges if you are able to stay out of trouble for a certain amount of time, often a possibility when lesser crimes are committed.

Of course, punishments for felonies are also going to be more harsh. Although the justice system is focused on rehabilitating young offenders, it still has to take felony crime seriously. Juveniles can end up getting sentenced to stay in a secure facility for up to 18 months, with occasional check-ins that determine whether or not they will be able to reenter society.

Do I Need an Attorney?

A seasoned criminal defense lawyer can do a lot to help you with your case. Your attorney will:

• Make sure that your constitutional rights are respected
• Poke holes in the prosecution’s case and create reasonable doubt
• Get evidence against you thrown out
• Attempt to get a jury that would be more sympathetic towards you
• Negotiate plea deals

Talk to Our Legal Team

If you have been charged with any crime, make sure that you have an experienced defense attorney who is ready to fight by your side. Contact Vasilous Law and schedule a free consultation. We can take a closer look at your case and tell you more about what we can do to assist you.