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The Alexander Building , 535 Central Ave, Suite 314, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701
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Clearwater Juvenile Crimes Attorney Defends Minors Arrested for Criminal Conduct with Understanding and Passion

Helping young people deal with adversity so they can move on with their lives

Juvenile courts in Florida handle many criminal cases when the defendant is under the age of 19. The juvenile courts hear both felony and misdemeanor charges. First-time juvenile offenders who are not accused of violent crimes can often bypass court proceedings and enter a juvenile diversion program leading to a complete dismissal of charges. Diversion programs allow the courts to focus on serious offenders, while minors who enter a juvenile diversion program face peer review, sanctions, counseling and community service. At the law office of Joseph Montrone, Jr., P.A., I guide clients into juvenile diversion programs when permitted and also provide traditional defense in juvenile court for repeat offenders and those charged with more serious crimes.

Hire an experienced criminal attorney to defend your child if charged with juvenile delinquency or crimes

The outcome of a criminal case against a juvenile may depend upon the effort and skill of the criminal defense lawyer hired to defend the minor. Hiring the right attorney is especially important because many crimes committed by teenagers can result in the juvenile being tried as an adult in adult court. Even if the case is handled in juvenile court, a solid and prepared defense strategy is key to achieving a desirable result, such as probation and rehabilitation rather than incarceration.

Juveniles in Clearwater, FL and throughout the state commit almost every type of criminal violation. The most common juvenile crimes include:

  • Malicious mischief
  • Underage drinking and DUI
  • Shoplifting
  • Drug possession
  • Gang crimes
  • Sex crimes

Other forms of criminal conduct commonly committed by juveniles include a wide array of theft and property crimes.

Florida tries many juveniles as adults when they are charged with crimes

Prosecutors in Florida have discretion to charge juveniles aged 14 and older as adults, by filing a motion requesting the court for a transfer. As a result, teenagers in Clearwater may face serious legal consequences in an intimidating setting and adult-oriented process. In certain cases, juveniles aged 14 or older are required to be charged as adults. This generally applies if the juvenile was previously judged delinquent in connection with murder, armed robbery, sexual battery, carjacking, home invasion or other violent crimes and is being charged with another violent crime. In addition, when a juvenile aged 14 or older was involved in three previous felonies, at least one of which involved a firearm or violence against a person, the juvenile will be tried as an adult. Juveniles tried as adults in an adult court can be sentenced to either juvenile or adult sanctions. Even in juvenile court, teenagers often face adult sanctions based on that nature of the crime committed and other factors. These realities highlight the importance of seeking immediate assistance from an experienced attorney whenever a juvenile has been arrested.

Contact a juvenile crimes attorney in Clearwater, FL today

At the law office of Joseph Montrone, Jr., P.A., I represent juveniles in criminal proceedings in both juvenile and adult court. I provide a free initial consultation. Contact me online or call my office at 727-888-0102.