
Juvenile Crimes Defense Services
All parents want the best for their children. Hence, it can be deeply distressing when a child is accused of a crime. You may be left wondering what will happen to them. Will they be sent to jail or juvenile detention? Will they have a permanent record? Any criminal accusation against a child can have severe repercussions on their future, and it's crucial to take the matter seriously. However, there are numerous ways to minimize or even eliminate many of these consequences. A knowledgeable and experienced attorney like John N. Elliott can guide you through this difficult situation to ensure the best outcome for your child.
In Michigan, if a child under the age of 18 is accused of a crime, the matter is referred to as “juvenile delinquency.” Unlike the typical adult criminal case, a juvenile delinquency case goes through the family division of the circuit court. The purpose of juvenile delinquency proceedings is to rehabilitate the child rather than to punish them.
Michigan courts with jurisdiction in juvenile cases
Two courts generally have jurisdiction in a juvenile case. The first is the family division of the circuit court in the county where the alleged offense occurred. If, however, the juvenile lives in a different county, the local court may request that the case be transferred to the juvenile's county of residence, provided the court there agrees to accept the transfer.
Can a child be tried as an adult in Michigan?
Yes, depending on the allegations, your child may be tried as an adult for a juvenile offense in Michigan.
A child may be required to register as a sex offender for a juvenile offense in certain cases. A child tried and convicted as an adult will have the same registration obligations as an adult.
Juvenile Delinquency
An ordinary juvenile case commences with the filing of a petition in the family division of the circuit court. The case proceeds similarly to a traditional criminal case unless it is dismissed, a plea deal is reached, or the case proceeds to trial. A finding of guilt results in an “adjudication” rather than a “conviction,” and the court orders a “disposition” instead of a “sentence.” The aim of the disposition is to rehabilitate the juvenile rather than to punish them.
In Michigan, many juvenile records are public. Therefore, obtaining a deferral is crucial. In cases involving allegations of sexual misconduct, a juvenile adjudication can also have sex offender registry consequences. It's critical to hire an attorney like John N. Elliott to minimize or eliminate the possible repercussions of a juvenile case.
There are several different routes that a juvenile case can take, and navigating through all the various options and their potential consequences can be complex. You need an attorney like John N. Elliott, who is well-versed in the complexities of juvenile proceedings to secure the best result for your child.
Reach Out to Us Immediately
If your child is charged with a juvenile offense, you need the support of an experienced juvenile defense attorney. Contact John N. Elliott right away to help protect your child's future.