DETROIT JUVENILE CRIMES LAWYER
When a child or teen is accused of a crime, the experience can be shattering for the entire family. As a parent, you may not understand the juvenile justice system, what is at stake, and how a criminal charge may impact your child’s future. This can cause extreme stress.
At the Law Offices of David I. Lee, we understand the emotional turmoil of these situations. Attorney David Lee has handled thousands of criminal cases, including those involving minors. Firm founding attorney David Lee provides clear guidance and aggressive advocacy for your son or daughter to give them the best chance of a favorable outcome.
If your child has been arrested and you’re looking for the best juvenile crimes lawyer, we invite you to contact us below or call us at (248) 755-3842 for a free initial consultation with our Detroit juvenile crimes attorney for advice and learn how we can help.
Common Juvenile Crimes in Michigan
Juvenile crimes range from misdemeanors to more serious crimes. Some of the most common crimes we see include the following.
- Shoplifting and petty theft
- Vandalism or property damage
- Underage drinking and possession of alcohol
- Drug possession or use
- Assault or fighting
- Traffic violations, including reckless driving
- Cyberbullying or online harassment
- Trespassing
- Disorderly conduct
- Burglary
While these crimes may seem minor, they can carry serious consequences, from a permanent criminal record to juvenile detention.
Understanding Michigan’s Juvenile Justice System
Michigan’s “juvenile justice system” is designed for reform and rehabilitation rather than punishment. Juveniles are treated differently from adults to steer them back toward a productive path. However, this approach does not guarantee leniency or dismissal of charges.
When a child is accused, the case is typically processed through the family division of the circuit court. Depending on the severity of the offense, the process may involve informal probation, a consent decree, or formal court proceedings.
What is a Consent Decree in a Juvenile Case in Michigan?
A “consent decree” is an agreement between the juvenile, their attorney, and the court to resolve a case without a formal adjudication (or finding of guilt). Essentially, it’s a form of diversion that allows the juvenile to avoid a formal conviction or delinquency record, provided they meet certain conditions set by the court.
These conditions might include:
- Completing community service
- Attending counseling or educational programs
- Paying restitution to victims
- Following specific behavioral guidelines, such as obeying curfews or avoiding certain individuals or places
If the juvenile successfully fulfills the consent decree terms within the agreed-upon timeframe, the charges are typically dismissed, and the case is closed without further penalties. However, failure to comply with the conditions can result in the case being reopened and proceeding through the formal court process.
Consent decrees are often used for first-time or low-level offenders to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, allowing the juvenile to learn from their mistakes without long-term consequences.
The Formal Court Process
The formal court process refers to the structured legal proceedings when a juvenile is formally charged with an offense.
It includes the following.
- Filing a petition: Charges are officially filed in court.
- Preliminary hearing: The court reviews evidence to decide if the case proceeds.
- Adjudication hearing: Similar to a trial, the judge determines if the juvenile committed the offense.
- Disposition hearing: If found responsible, the court may impose consequences such as probation, community service, or detention.
- Post-disposition: The court monitors compliance with its orders.
This process can lead to a juvenile record, making strong legal representation essential to protect the child’s future.
For serious crimes, juveniles as young as 14 can be tried as adults, which significantly raises the stakes. Outcomes can vary from counseling programs to incarceration in a juvenile detention center.
Call The Law Offices of David I. Lee for a Free Consultation
It is critical in juvenile cases to have a knowledgeable attorney who will advocate for fair treatment and secure an outcome that prioritizes rehabilitation. Our firm protects minors through tenacious legal representation and seeks optimum outcomes.
Call (313) 824-3497 to discuss your needs with a Detroit juvenile crimes attorney today.