Greenly Juvenile Defense Lawyers

Experienced Defense Against Juvenile Crimes in Colorado

Do not assume that just because you or your child is charged in juvenile court a criminal conviction won’t have a lasting and perhaps lifelong impact. Juvenile crimes can seriously impact a person’s opportunity for education, employment, and freedom.

At Peek Goldstone, LLC, our Colorado juvenile defense attorneys work to make sure that the mistakes juveniles are accused of today don’t create extreme burdens in the future. We provide the same level of tenacious and aggressive representation to juvenile clients that we bring to the most serious adult cases.

Whether we have to fight to make sure the crime stays in juvenile courts or we need to petition to have charges reduced or dismissed, we put every strategy at our disposal behind your case. Our juvenile criminal defense lawyers put their experience, ability and attitude to work, and, depending on the case, will work to keep our juvenile clients out of detention and free of a lasting criminal record.

Contact us online or call (970) 352-8611 now if you or your child is facing criminal charges.

Types of Juvenile Offenses in Colorado

Minors can be charged with a variety of offenses in Colorado, ranging from relatively minor infractions to more serious crimes. Some of the most common juvenile offenses include:

• Theft and Burglary: Whether it’s shoplifting or residential burglary, a theft conviction can have serious consequences for a minor’s future.
• Drug Possession and Distribution: Drug offenses are taken very seriously in Colorado, and minors caught in possession or distribution of drugs can face severe penalties.
• Assault and Battery: Juvenile charges for assault, battery, or other violent crimes can carry serious consequences, especially if the victim is seriously injured.
• Vandalism: Damage to property or public places can result in juvenile charges for vandalism.
• Underage Drinking and DUI: If a minor is caught drinking underage or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they may face both criminal and administrative consequences.
• Sexual Offenses: Serious charges such as sexual assault or harassment can significantly impact a minor’s life, and these cases often require sensitive and skilled defense.
• Weapons Charges: Possessing or using a weapon, including firearms, can lead to serious charges in the juvenile justice system.

The type of offense and the minor’s prior criminal history will determine the penalties they may face. In many cases, minors who are accused of crimes may qualify for diversion programs, which allow them to avoid a formal conviction if they complete a rehabilitation program. A Greenly juvenile defense lawyer will analyze the specific circumstances of the case and work to pursue the most favorable resolution.

Colorado Juvenile Justice System: How It Works

The juvenile justice system in Colorado differs from the adult criminal justice system in several ways. Juveniles who are arrested and charged with a crime are processed through juvenile court, where the focus is on rehabilitation and reintegration into society rather than punishment. In Colorado, minors are typically tried in juvenile court if they are under the age of 18 at the time of the alleged offense.

The key differences between juvenile and adult court include:

• Confidentiality: Juvenile court proceedings are typically closed to the public, and records are sealed in many cases. This is done to protect the minor’s privacy and prevent a criminal record from following them into adulthood.
• Sentencing: If a minor is convicted of a crime in juvenile court, they will typically receive a sentence that focuses on rehabilitation rather than punitive measures. This may include probation, community service, educational programs, or placement in a juvenile detention facility. However, in some cases, minors may be charged as adults for serious offenses.
• Diversion Programs: Many minors are eligible for diversion programs, which allow them to avoid formal criminal charges if they complete a rehabilitation program, perform community service, or attend counseling. These programs can provide an opportunity for the minor to make amends and avoid a criminal conviction.
• Transfer to Adult Court: In some cases, minors may be transferred to adult court, particularly for serious offenses such as violent crimes. This is known as a “direct file,” and it can lead to harsher penalties, including adult prison sentences.

Because the juvenile justice system is focused on rehabilitation and reintegration, it is essential to have an experienced Greenly juvenile defense attorney on your side to ensure that your child’s case is handled appropriately and that the best outcome is achieved.

What Happens If a Juvenile is Convicted?

If a juvenile is convicted of a crime, the penalties will depend on the severity of the offense and the minor’s history. Penalties may include:

• Probation: Juveniles convicted of crimes may be placed on probation, during which they must comply with certain conditions, such as attending school, obeying curfew, and attending counseling.
• Juvenile Detention: For more serious offenses, a minor may be placed in a juvenile detention center, where they may receive rehabilitation services.
• Restitution: In some cases, the juvenile may be required to pay restitution to the victim for damages or losses caused by the crime.
• Diversion Programs: If the minor has no prior criminal history or is facing a less severe charge, they may be eligible for diversion programs, which allow them to avoid a formal conviction by completing community service, attending counseling, or participating in educational programs.

The goal of juvenile sentencing is always to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. A Greenly juvenile defense attorney can help ensure that the penalties your child faces are fair and aimed at providing the support they need.

Why Choose Greenly Juvenile Defense Lawyers

If your child is facing criminal charges, it’s crucial to have a dedicated and knowledgeable lawyer by your side to ensure their future is protected. Greenly juvenile defense attorneys are committed to defending minors accused of crimes in Colorado, providing aggressive representation and personalized legal services throughout the legal process. Whether your child is facing a minor infraction or a more serious charge, we will work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome and help them move forward with their life.

Contact us online or call (970) 352-8611 today to schedule a consultation with a Greenly juvenile defense lawyer and start building a defense strategy for your child’s case.