While the criminal justice system for adults is focused on punishment, a criminal defense attorney in Broward County can explain that rehabilitation is the goal of juvenile justice.  At a younger age, courts are convinced that a person can steer away from committing crimes and change their life around before becoming a hardened criminal.  A criminal defense attorney in Broward County can advocate for a troubled youth in order to minimize exposure to the criminal justice system.

Types of Juvenile Offenses 

Some common crimes that juveniles are charged with include:

• Minor in possession of alcohol
• Truancy
• Defacing property
• Vandalism
• Drug possession
• Theft
• Gang involvement
• Assault
• Battery
• Sexual assault

 Juvenile Crime Punishments

Florida law allows the juvenile court system to impose a variety of punishments on a youthful offender, including:

• Confinement in a juvenile detention center
• Probation
• House arrest
• Loss of driver’s license
• Curfew
• Fines
• Community service
• Requirement to attend drug counseling, alcohol treatment, counseling or anger management classes
• Paid restitution to the victim

Even parents who were not involved in the commission of a crime can be held legally responsible for the crimes committed by their children.  They may be required to pay restitution to the victims as well as face any civil lawsuits from the victims.

Legal Assistance for Juvenile Crimes

Due to the potential risks involved with a youthful offender being convicted of a juvenile crime, it is important to seek legal counsel.  A juvenile defense lawyer can help uncover the reasons for a juvenile offenders actions and find programs that can help address his or her needs.  A juvenile defense lawyer may be able to negotiate a favorable plea bargain that keeps the offender out of a juvenile detention center in favor of a program that will provide more meaningful results.