Once a child passes their 10th birthday, they can be charged with criminal offenses in juvenile court. These offenses range from a Class C to a Texas Misdemeanor Class A. If a crime is committed by a child younger than 10, the State will not press charges as they cannot have criminal intent. Conversely, once a child turns 18, they will no longer be recognized as a juvenile. Sometimes, the State will try to certify children as young as 14 as an adult. It’s imperative to seek representation as soon as possible so that your child’s rights are left fully intact.
Texas Misdemeanor Class A
Most offenses tried in juvenile courts are misdemeanors. The following are quintessential criminal offenses committed by juveniles:
- truancy
- theft
- arson
- shoplifting
- vandalism
- joyriding
- simple assault
- underage drinking
Repercussions for Juvenile Offenses
The penalties are not as harsh as sentences for similar crimes that adults may face. The Juvenile system is designed to rehabilitate and prevent future adult criminal behavior. However, your child may still face detention &/or other consequences, some with lasting effects, including:
- a criminal record
- restitution
- fines
- suspended driver’s license and loss of specific driving privileges
- incarceration in a juvenile detention facility
- inability to participate in various educational programs or colleges
- ineligibility for some jobs
- counseling
- community service
- substance abuse treatment
- probation
- home confinement
These penalties are not definite. Remember, the goal is to rehabilitate minors and curb criminal behavior before entering adulthood. Generally, juvenile Judges want to remove the stain of a juvenile record when feasible.
Deferred Prosecution
If your child has no previous offenses, and the offense was a misdemeanor (the most severe being a Texas Misdemeanor Class A), deferred prosecution may be extended as an alternative to formal adjudication. Deferred prosecution is a deal offered by the State to essentially drop charges in exchange for the minor serving probation and other circumstantial conditions.
Our juvenile criminal lawyers seek deferred prosecution for our clients when possible. We will gather evidence and support the argument for deferred prosecution. Such evidence generally includes:
- proof of extracurricular activities
- support letters from teachers
- good grades
- a letter of remorse
- proof the juvenile has begun professional services
Deferred prosecution is one of the best outcomes for a Texas Misdemeanor Class A. If deferred prosecution is extended to your child, it’s a good idea to accept.
Juvenile Probation
Depending upon circumstances, a judge will determine whether a juvenile will be released to a parent’s custody or held in a facility. Judges weigh the following factors to determine appropriate probations:
- supervision available at home
- criminal offenses/actions
- mental health
- medical needs
- available county services
If your child is placed on home probation, the Court will impose strict restrictions and rules. Additionally, they will be required to report routinely to their probation officer. Probation can last up until their 18th birthday.
Contact a Juvenile Criminal Lawyer
If your child has been charged with a Texas Misdemeanor Class A, seek representation immediately. At AZ Law Firm, our lawyers will fight to have the charges dropped and seek deferred prosecution for your child. Juveniles deserve to go into adulthood armed to thrive the best they can. We’re here to afford your child the right to a prosperous future.
To find out how we can help you, contact our criminal defense attorneys at 512-400-7070 for Texas Misdemeanor Class A defense and expunge juvenile record Texas. We will schedule an initial client consultation to review your case details and lay out a game plan for your Texas Misdemeanor Class A case. AZ Law Firm will pursue the legal action necessary to secure the fairest possible outcome for you and your loved ones.
We understand times are tough and that there probably hasn’t been a tougher time in your life. Although we could get away with charging exuberant amounts, we prefer not to as we are a law firm by the people, for the people. We do not want you to worry about whether you can afford to hire an attorney to protect and defend your rights. Call us and be surprised at the quality you receive compared to what other law firms will quote you!
Accordingly, the attorneys at AZ Law Firm will always provide you with a free initial consultation. During this initial consultation, our criminal lawyers will evaluate your case, inform you of any legal options that may be available, and allow you to ask any questions that you may have. AZ Law Firm offers affordable rates for all our clients and will work with you on payment plans. Our firm accepts checks, debit cards, and most major credit cards to cover the costs of your legal representation.
