San Antonio Juvenile Defense Attorneys
Protecting Your Child’s Freedom & Future
Has your son or daughter been arrested for a criminal offense? This is every parent’s nightmare and can lead to ongoing family anxiety about what will happen next and how it will affect your child’s future. If you are facing this situation, our legal team can help.
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we are here to provide competent and caring legal assistance to ensure that your child is treated fairly throughout the entire juvenile criminal process. Our aim is to provide the highest-quality legal representation and, when it comes to minors, we know how important that is for your child’s future. We always work aggressively to seek a favorable resolution.
Get the legal help you need by contacting our San Antonio juvenile crime attorneys at (210) 960-9557 today.
Juvenile Offenses in Texas
It is important to remember that, in the juvenile justice system, rehabilitation is preferred over punishment. However, as in all criminal cases, the consequences are generally based on the nature of the offense.
In this system, a juvenile offense refers to any crime committed by a minor between the ages of 10 and 16. In the case of a minor offense, a child will often receive only a warning. In some cases, however, the child’s case may be turned over to a probation officer. For offenses of a more serious nature, actual criminal charges may be filed against the child by the district attorney.
Your Child Has Rights
When a minor is taken into custody, it must be reported to the child’s parents. The child is then given the opportunity to make two phone calls to parents or guardians. Just as in the case of adults, minors are protected by constitutional rights. These rights include the right to remain silent.
Parents’ Rights
It is your right as a parent to visit your son or daughter once he or she is placed in a juvenile facility. You are allowed to have a private conversation, and you must be informed about any proceedings that may follow regarding your child’s case.
The Delinquency Petition
The majority of juvenile cases are conducted through what is called the delinquency petition. A hearing will be held in which a juvenile judge will determine the innocence or guilt of your child’s actions. Should the judge conclude that your child actually committed the offense for which he or she has been accused, the judge will then make an adjudication about how best to sentence the child.
Certification as an Adult
A child may be tried as an adult if he or she:
- Is 14 or older
- Committed a particularly serious crime
- Has a history of juvenile crimes
A hearing before a judge will be held to determine if, in the best interests of justice, the child should be tried as an adult. After a full investigation into the child’s case, the judge will issue a certification as an adult only in instances where it is found necessary.
FAQ for San Antonio Juvenile Crime
How is the legal process different for juveniles in Texas?
Juvenile cases are handled in the juvenile justice system, which focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment. Instead of criminal court, juveniles go through a detention hearing, adjudication (similar to a trial), and a disposition hearing (similar to sentencing). Outcomes often include counseling, community service, or probation.
Can juveniles be tried as adults in Texas?
Yes, in cases involving severe offenses like murder or aggravated robbery, juveniles aged 14 or older may be certified to stand trial as adults. This can result in more severe penalties, including a permanent criminal record.
Can juvenile records be sealed in Texas?
Yes, in many cases, juvenile records can be sealed after a certain period or upon completion of probation. Sealing these records means they are no longer accessible to the public, helping the juvenile move on without a lasting criminal history.
What long-term consequences can a juvenile offense have?
If not addressed, a juvenile offense can affect future opportunities, including education, employment, and even housing. However, the juvenile justice system focuses on minimizing these consequences through rehabilitation and often allows for sealing of records.
How a San Antonio Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help
San Antonio juvenile defense attorneys possess an in-depth understanding of the unique challenges minors face in the juvenile justice system. They are equipped to protect the rights of youth, navigate complex legal processes, and strive for outcomes that focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. By working closely with families, these legal professionals can provide guidance and support during difficult times, ensuring that young clients receive fair treatment throughout their cases.
Services Provided by Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorneys
- Case Evaluation: Thorough analysis of the details surrounding the charges to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the case.
- Legal Representation: Advocacy in juvenile court, ensuring that the minor's rights are protected and effectively presenting their defense.
- Negotiation Skills: Engaging in negotiations with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
- Plea Bargaining: Expertise in negotiating plea deals that may offer more lenient outcomes for young clients.
- Guidance Through Proceedings: Providing direction on how the juvenile court process works, including what to expect during hearings and trials.
- Protecting Rights: Safeguarding the minor's constitutional rights throughout the legal proceedings, including the right to a fair trial.
- Rehabilitation Focus: Advocating for rehabilitation programs instead of punitive measures, aiming to help the youth grow and avoid future issues.
- Parental Support: Advising and updating parents or guardians on the legal process and any decisions that must be made regarding their child's case.
- Appeals: Representing the client in case of an unfavorable outcome, pursuing appeals to seek a different verdict or sentence.
- Education and Outreach: Informing clients and families about the rights of juveniles and resources available for support and education.
By providing these comprehensive services, a juvenile criminal defense attorney in San Antonio can significantly impact a minor's future, helping to steer them toward a more positive path while minimizing the long-term effects of criminal charges.
San Antonio Juvenile Crime Lawyers
Smith & Vinson Law Firm always takes juvenile charges seriously. We are fearless fighters when it comes to protecting a child's constitutional rights. If your child is in trouble, do not hesitate to contact us to discuss the situation. We will always help you seek a favorable resolution for your child’s case.
Contact our office today for a free initial consultation. Call our San Antonio juvenile crime attorneys at (210) 960-9557.
Our Clients Are Our Biggest Endorsers
Hear What They Have to Say
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Attorney Brad Vinson was informative, professional yet sympathetic with his approach to my case. Mr. Vinson was open to opinion and ensured that all legal avenues were considered and addressed before presenting a course of action.- Michael
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Having no background in law and finding myself in a situation that left me feeling extremely vulnerable, I felt quickly at ease in their care. They were very reasonable with my situation and helped work around my needs by providing me with the most support- Andrew
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They handled my case incredibly well and warned me on the possible negative outcomes, overall completely satisfied me through the whole process.- Elmer Marqueiz
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Very professional, on time and educates you along the whole process. I had a lot to lose and you guys gave it all back to me and finally represented what true Justice is here in America.- Manuel R.
A Proven Track Record
Check Out Our Recent Case Results
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Charges Dismissed Sexual Assault Investigation
Our client was a Texas State student who had a bright career ahead of him. He was accused of sexual assault by a classmate and an overzealous law enforcement officer proceeded to arrest him without a thorough investigation. Our team was able to fight for our client by putting together a defense that showed that the actions between the two were consensual and that his accuser had ulterior motives. The District Attorney's Office agreed and dismissed the case.
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Dismissed Theft
Our client was allegedly caught shoplifting at an HEB. She had no prior arrest history, so we worked with her on proactively taking classes, which were used to her advantage during our negotiations. The client accepted a deferred adjudication on the shoplifting offense, which was ultimately dismissed.
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Cases Dismissed Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Misdemeanor Assault with Bodily Injury
Our client was accused of attacking another man on two separate occasions, once with his hands and once with a knife in our client’s home. Our client had told the man to stay away from his family because the man had made romantic advances toward his wife, but the man persisted.
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Case Dismissed Aggravated Robbery
Our client was accused of robbing another person at gunpoint for some sneakers along with a co-defendant and getaway driver. We investigated the evidence and discovered that it was the co-defendant who arranged for the purchase of the sneakers, and that surveillance video disproved the State’s theory that a gun was brandished or that our client knew what was going on.
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Charges Avoided Assault
Client had been celebrating his birthday and tried to prevent some of his guest from driving while intoxicated. While attempting to arrange an alternative ride for a relative, the relative’s girlfriend decided she wasn’t having it and decided to start an altercation with a few other guest. Later she accused our client of having assaulted her and sending her to the hospital.