Defending Your Child in Murfreesboro and Middle Tennessee
One of the last things that you want or expect as a parent is a call from juvenile authorities that your child has been arrested. However it does happen. As tempting as it may be to let your child "face the music," a finding of juvenile delinquency can have a negative effect on your child for the rest of his or her life.
At the Law Offices of Howard, Kendrick & Reynolds in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, we represent children in negotiations with juvenile court prosecutors and judges to make sure the emphasis remains on rehabilitation, not punishment. We also represent parents in dependency, neglect and removal actions initiated by the Department of Children's Services (DCS).
Juveniles and Criminal Law
Juveniles can face the same types of criminal charges that adults face. In addition, there are certain status offenses, such as truancy, that only apply to minors. We represent juveniles who are charged with all types of crimes and status offenses, including:
- Underage drinking or minor in possession of alcohol
- Drug charges such as possession or possession with intent to distribute
- Sex offenses such as rape or "sexting" on a cell phone
- Assault
- Truancy
- Vandalism
- Shoplifting, theft and burglary charges
- Theft of a motor vehicle theft
- Possession of a weapon at school
Juveniles can be tried in adult court and be subject to adult consequences if the offense is serious enough. However, even a finding of delinquency can have a negative effect on your child's future.
Even though juvenile records are not accessible by the general public, they are available to courts, police officers and the military. If your child is pulled over by police and he or she has a juvenile record, he or she could be treated differently as a result.
Free Attorney Consultation
For more information about juvenile offenses or to schedule a free initial consultation with a criminal defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Howard, Kendrick & Reynolds, call us at 615-217-3560 or fill out the contact form on this Web site.
