Are you in need of a juvenile law attorney near Orem, UT? Despite being a minor, a juvenile can face some serious legal consequences. And though the juvenile justice system in Utah is different for minors than adults, there can also be situations where a teen can be tried as an adult in certain scenarios. This is why it’s crucial to find the best representation from a juvenile attorney.
If your teenage son or daughter has been charged with a crime in Orem, UT, then they deserve the legal backing of a qualified juvenile lawyer. Jason White & Associates has the experience and knowledge necessary to provide your teenage son or daughter with the legal representation they deserve. Our team has represented minors charged with felonies and misdemeanors, and we will provide the legal backing you need to protect your child’s rights. Call Jason White & Associates for a free legal consultation.
Our Juvenile Lawyers Are Ready No Matter the Case
Whether it’s your child, grandchild, or a younger sibling, it can be extremely difficult to see your family being accused of a crime. If you’re not sure what to do in this case, you don’t have to deal with the burden alone. One of the first things you should do is call a juvenile law attorney. At Jason White & Associates, we know how stressful and disconcerting it can be when a juvenile is accused of a criminal offense, and we will use care and compassion in counseling your family. Our expert juvenile lawyers will focus on creating a sound and aggressive legal strategy that revolves around the best interest of your child. No matter the charges, we’ll utilize our knowledge and experience to give your child the best defense possible.
Some common juvenile crimes committed in Utah include the following:
- Assault
- Automotive Theft
- Burglary
- Curfew Violations
- Destruction of Property
- Driving without a License
- Drug Possession and Distribution
- DUI
- Graffiti
- Possession of Cannabis
- Public Intoxication
- Shoplifting
- Trespassing
- Underage Drinking
- Underage Smoking (Possession of Tobacco)
- Using Fake IDs
- Vandalism
Our juvenile law attorneys near Orem, UT, are ready to handle your case no matter the charges. We are more than qualified when it comes to juvenile law, which means we understand the nuances of the laws that govern Utah’s juvenile justice system. We bring extensive knowledge and solid legal strategies to your case. We’re prepared to do what we can to provide you with the best outcome possible.
How Does Juvenile Law Work in Utah?
When it comes to juvenile law, crimes are tried and punished differently than they are for adults. However, there are certain stipulations that the state of Utah looks at when it comes to criminal charges against minors. It can be beneficial for you to gain an understanding on how the juvenile system works in Utah.
When a crime is charged against someone under the age of 18, their case will go to juvenile court. In Utah, juvenile court is civil, not criminal, and the focus is more on providing treatment and rehabilitation. If a juvenile is found guilty, instead of being sent to jail or prison, a judge will typically impose a penalty such as:
- Community Service
- Fines
- Probation
- Counseling
- Rehab
Just like an adult would, juveniles are required to attend court hearings, but juvenile hearings are closed to the public for privacy and protection. On a normal basis, the only ones attending the hearings are the offender, their family members, and the intake officer.
Who is the intake officer? They are the person who’s been assigned to the case by the court and their role is to meet the minor and their member so that an appropriate course of action is set in place. If the minor doesn’t admit to guilt, the intake officer will then refer the case to the County Attorney’s office. From this point, the County Attorney’s office will make one of three decisions:
- The right to know of all charges against them.
- The right against self-incrimination.
- The right to a juvenile attorney.
Just like adults, juveniles have:
- The right to know of all charges against them.
- The right against self-incrimination.
- The right to a juvenile attorney.
When Do Juveniles Get Tried as Adults?
For the most part, juvenile cases are relatively minor offenses. But, there are some cases where a juvenile is accused of a more serious crime, which could lead to being charged as an adult. These felonies include:
- Arson
- Assault
- Burglary
- Kidnapping
- Robbery
- Sexual Assault
- Attempted Aggravated Murder
- Attempted Murder
- Felony Discharge of a Firearm
These would be classified as SYOL (Serious Youth Offender Law).
When can a minor be tried as an adult? In the state of Utah, there are a few scenarios where a minor could be tried as an adult. These scenarios are:
- A minor as young as 14 could be tried as an adult if the prosecutor can persuade the judge that doing so serves the interests of justice.
- A 16–17-year-old minor will automatically be tried as an adult if they are charged with murder.
- A 16–17-year-old minor will automatically be tried in adult court if they have been previously sentenced to a secure facility (the equivalent of jail/prison for minors).
- A 16–17-year-old minor who is charged with one of the SYOL felonies listed above. However, a judge could be persuaded to try these in juvenile court to best serve the interests of justice. This is why hiring a qualified juvenile attorney is so important.
When You Need a Juvenile Attorney, We’re Here for You
If you’re in Orem, UT, and need a qualified juvenile attorney, don’t hesitate to reach out to Jason White & Associates. We can schedule a free consultation and get right to work on your case.
We service the following cities and their surrounding areas: