A juvenile offender is generally described as a person under the age of majority (under the age of 18 in most states) who commits any specific act prohibited by law. While it is understood that certain acts such as theft, robbery, assault, murder, etc. are obviously against the law, juveniles are also subject to additional laws such as truancy laws and curfew laws.

If you, or a loved one, are facing juvenile criminal charges then you need to seek the advice of an experienced and aggressive juvenile criminal attorney immediately. You should consult with an attorney now, if for no other reason, but to get your questions answered and alleviate your fears regarding what will happen in your child’s case. The Law Offices of Scott M. Schlegel can evaluate your case and provide you with the knowledge and experience that is crucial when defending you against criminal charges.

Juvenile Court has jurisdiction over persons less than 18 years old when alleged conduct occurred. (California Welfare & Institutions Code § 602(a).) Generally, juvenile court can retain jurisdiction until defendant’s 21st birthday, but, if defendant was convicted of a crime listed at § 707(d)(2), (b) or (e), the court can retain jurisdiction until defendant’s 25th birthday. (§ 607(a)-(b).)

Juvenile court does not have jurisdiction over a person 14+ and accused of a violent felony listed at § 602(b)(1)-(2). These cases must be filed directly in adult court.

Prosecutor may file directly in adult court the case of a juvenile 16+ and accused of a crime listed at § 707(b)(1)-(30).

Prosecutor may file directly in adult court the case of a juvenile 14+ and accused of a crime listed at § 707(d)(2)(A)-(B) or a crime listed at § 707(b)(1)-(30), if an aggravating factor listed at § 707(d)(2)(C)(i)-(iv) also applies.

The juvenile criminal process is unique and there is a separate court system for juvenile offenders. There are also different categories of juvenile offenders.  Juvenile Delinquent behavior is divided into two categories: Criminal Offenders and Juveniles remanded to superior court and Informal Probationers and Status Offenders. Status offenses are those acts which would not be considered offenses if committed by an adult, such as school truancy, running away from home, alcohol possession or use, or curfew violations. Juveniles are remanded to Superior Court for offenses which involve destruction or theft of property, commission of violent crimes against persons, illegal weapon possession, or the possession or sale of illegal drugs.

If your child has been arrested for a criminal offense
then you must
CALL (619) 298-6026