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.

Protect Your Child’s Future
A juvenile charge can have lasting consequences. Contact us today at (970) 352-8611 for a confidential consultation.

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.

Juvenile Defense Strategies & Legal Rights

When a minor is charged with a crime, having a strong defense is critical. Some common defense strategies include:

• Lack of intent – Many juvenile crimes require intent, and proving it was an accident can lead to a dismissal.
• Mistaken identity – If a minor was falsely identified, evidence like alibis or surveillance footage can help.
• False accusations – Sometimes, teens are accused due to misunderstandings, personal conflicts, or pressure from others.

If a minor is arrested, parents often wonder if they will be notified. In Colorado:

• Law enforcement must attempt to notify a parent or guardian when a juvenile is taken into custody.
• However, police can question a minor without a parent present, so it’s crucial to advise children to remain silent until a lawyer is involved.

Juveniles have the right to remain silent, just like adults. If questioned, they should politely request a lawyer before speaking. Anything they say can be used against them in court.

If convicted, many minors worry about their record. In Colorado:

• Some juvenile records can be sealed, but serious offenses may remain public.
• A lawyer can help file for record sealing to protect the minor’s future opportunities.

Understanding Juvenile Offenses in Colorado

Minors can be charged with crimes that carry serious consequences. Some common offenses include:

• Cyber Crimes & Social Media Misuse – Sexting, cyberbullying, and online threats can lead to criminal charges.
• Hate Crimes & Bias-Motivated Offenses – Crimes motivated by race, gender, or other biases may result in harsher penalties.
• Trespassing & Breaking and Entering – While similar, breaking and entering is a more severe offense than trespassing.
• School-Related Crimes – Fighting, making threats, or bringing weapons to school can lead to juvenile detention or expulsion.
• Gang-Related Charges – Gang involvement can lead to enhanced penalties and adult court transfers.

Juvenile Court vs. Adult Court: Key Differences

In most cases, juveniles are tried in a special court system that focuses on rehabilitation. However, some minors may be charged as adults.

When Can a Juvenile Be Charged as an Adult?

• If the crime is particularly serious (e.g., homicide or sexual assault).
• If the minor is close to 18 and has prior offenses.
• If the prosecution requests a "direct file" to move the case to adult court.

Can a Minor Get Life in Prison in Colorado?

• Colorado law prohibits automatic life sentences for juveniles.
• However, in extreme cases, a juvenile can receive a lengthy prison sentence with parole eligibility.

How to Prevent a Juvenile from Being Transferred to Adult Court

• Work with an experienced defense attorney to argue for rehabilitation instead of punishment.
• Present evidence of the minor’s ability to change and lack of criminal history.
• Negotiate plea deals to keep the case in juvenile court.

Facing juvenile charges is serious, but the right defense strategy can protect a child’s future. If your child is in trouble, seek legal help immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will my child have a permanent criminal record if convicted?

• Not always. Many juvenile records can be sealed after a certain period, especially for non-violent offenses. However, serious crimes may remain on record. A lawyer can help determine if record sealing is possible.

Can a juvenile be detained before trial?

• Yes, but it depends on the severity of the offense. Some minors are released to their parents, while others may be held in a juvenile detention center if they are considered a risk to public safety.

Do juveniles get bail like adults?

• No. Instead of bail, the judge decides whether to release the minor to their parents or keep them in detention based on factors like prior offenses and the nature of the crime.

Will my child have to go to court?

• Most likely, yes. However, in some cases, charges can be resolved through diversion programs, which may allow a minor to avoid formal court proceedings if they complete certain requirements.

Can my child be questioned without a lawyer present?

• Yes, but they still have the right to remain silent. Police must attempt to notify a parent, but they can legally question a minor who waives their rights. It’s crucial to tell your child not to answer questions without an attorney.

What happens if my child violates probation?

• Violating probation can lead to stricter penalties, including detention or additional community service. A judge may also extend probation or impose stricter conditions.

Are parents held responsible for their child’s crimes?

• In some cases, yes. Parents may be financially responsible for damages caused by their child, especially in cases of vandalism or theft. However, they are not criminally responsible unless they contributed to the offense.

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. Our team 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.

Experienced Juvenile Defense Attorneys
Don’t wait—early legal action can make a difference. Contact us now at (970) 352-8611 to discuss your child’s case.