Best Defense Attorneys for Juvenile Crimes in Denver, Colorado

Juvenile Defense Attorney & Lawyers in Denver

Criminal Defense

Minors are not always fully aware of their rights and responsibilities under Colorado law, and the consequences can be quite severe when a young person faces criminal or delinquency charges. As a parent, your instinct is to protect your child, but you might find yourself overwhelmed by juvenile court proceedings. This is why contacting a Denver juvenile defense attorney is in your best interest. One of our experienced legal professionals is equipped to adequately represent your child throughout the entirety of the juvenile court case process.

Understanding the Penalties & Process of Prosecuting Juveniles in Denver

Typically, a person who is under the age of 18 is considered a juvenile according to Colorado law. Juvenile cases apply to individuals ten or older who have been accused of criminal offenses or delinquent actions.

When a juvenile has been arrested, the young person has the right to an initial hearing to determine if the juvenile should continue to be detained. After the detention hearing, the prosecution can choose whether to file a delinquency petition with the court system.

A judge or magistrate oversees the hearings when juvenile cases go to trial. A jury trial is usually reserved for serious juvenile cases involving violent offenses or sex offenses.

Criminal Justice System for Juvenile Offenders

Though different from adult cases in many ways, juvenile cases are often just as complicated. Because the court system can become confusing and overwhelming for minors and their parents, working with a juvenile criminal defense attorney is highly advisable. At Juba Law, our attorneys are well-versed in navigating juvenile justice cases. We not only guide juvenile clients throughout the entire legal process, but we take time to educate our young clients about their rights and the resources available to them. It is our goal to reach a satisfactory outcome that protects the client’s future.

Sentencing Options for a Juvenile in Colorado

Juvenile delinquency cases and juvenile criminal cases can end with several sentencing options depending on the nature of the offense and the client’s history.
Possible sentences include the following:

  • County jail (if the individual has turned 18 by the time of sentencing)
  • Commitment to the state’s Division of Youth Services, usually for up to two years, but potentially up to seven years in serious cases
  • Detention for no more than 45 days
  • Placement outside of the home
  • Placement with relatives
  • Probation (typically for two years if the individual complies with the terms)
  • Restitution (reimbursing victims for damages)

Why You Need a Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyer

Whether you’re facing juvenile drug cases, juvenile theft cases, juvenile sex offender cases, or juvenile murder cases, you need a Denver juvenile defense lawyer. Young people don’t always understand the consequences of their actions, and because of this, they may find themselves battling charges they don’t fully grasp. A juvenile defense lawyer in Denver can provide expert representation and see to it that your child’s future is preserved as well as possible. Additionally, a lawyer will work hard to ensure that the client has the resources they need to prevent future offenses.

Best Legal Representation for Your Child

At Juba Law, our team of juvenile defense attorneys in Denver not only represents young clients in an array of juvenile crimes cases, but we also work within the community through organizations like LYRIC, Chained Voices, the Second Wind Fund, the Colorado Juvenile Defender Center, and Denver Juvenile Justice. To begin with, we aim to strengthen community awareness, enhance juvenile empowerment, and offer services that keep young people out of the court system. We will take every possible step to protect your child’s rights and defend them in court with decades of experience and professionalism.

FAQ

1. How does a juvenile court judge decide if a child is guilty of a delinquent act?
The steps in a juvenile court case may vary, but the judge is presented with the available facts during court proceedings. The judge determines if sufficient evidence exists to prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt to adjudicate a juvenile guilty of the offense.
2. What is an adjudication of delinquency?
Adjudication is just the juvenile term of “conviction.” In adult court, a person can be “convicted” of a crime. In juvenile court, a young person can be “adjudicated” guilty if the young person either pleads guilty or is found guilty at trial.
3. What is the difference between adult and juvenile courts in Colorado?
Individuals who are under the age of 18 go through the juvenile court in most cases, while adult offenders are sent to standard criminal court.
4. Can juveniles be tried in adult court?
Juveniles tried as adults cases are uncommon, but it does happen. Usually, when a juvenile has a history of criminal activity and/or the crime was particularly violent, the individual may be tried in adult court.
5. How does juvenile court work in Colorado?
The juvenile court aims to rehabilitate young people, and though the process is somewhat similar for adults and juveniles, the actions involved are not.
6. What is the maximum sentence for a juvenile in Colorado?
Juvenile life sentence cases are the highest sentence in juvenile court. However, this is uncommon and comes with the possibility of parole after 40 years.
7. How long can a juvenile be detained without a hearing?
A juvenile cannot be detained for more than 48 hours without a detention hearing taking place.
8. Is it possible to erase juvenile records in Denver?
It’s possible to expunge juvenile records if the juvenile or family member petitions the court. In many cases, the expungement of the record is automatic.

WHY CHOOSE THE JUBA LAW OFFICE

Denver’s Best Criminal & Civil Suit Lawyers

Proven Track Record of Success in Court

Proven Track Record of Success in Court

Experienced Litigators and Mediators

Experienced Litigators and Mediators

Always Prepared to Take a Case to Trial

Always Prepared to Take a Case to Trial

Best Possible Outcome for Your Case

Best Possible Outcome for Your Case

Available 24/7 for Clients

Available 24/7 for Clients

Decades of Experience

Decades of Experience

Comprehensive Legal Consultation

Comprehensive Legal Consultation

Personalized Legal Strategies

Personalized Legal Strategies