Fresno Juvenile Lawyers
We all have stories about some sort of trouble we got into as children. Whether we got caught skipping school, spray painting graffiti, or taking someone’s car for a joy ride, we usually received punishment from our parents and did not need Fresno juvenile attorneys.
However, some kids in Fresno are not as lucky and repeatedly commit crimes or get involved in more serious crimes. For these children, the juvenile court system provides punishment and rehabilitation.
Common Juvenile Crimes
Crimes committed by individuals under 18 are usually treated as juvenile offenses and can be categorized in several broad classes:
- Property crimes – Offenses that involve the damage or theft of someone else’s property. Vandalism, vehicle theft, and burglary are examples.
- Violent crimes – Offenses that involve injury to others are included in violent crimes. They include assault, battery, rape, and murder.
- Drug-related crimes – Possession or sale of illegal drugs are included in this category.
- Juvenile status crimes – These crimes are only considered crimes because of the child’s age. Examples include curfew violations, truancy, or running away from home.
In each of the above categories of Fresno juvenile crimes, there are different levels of severity. The severity of the crime and the age of the child determine the extent of the punishment. Juvenile crimes can be:
- Infractions – Minor violations that are usually punishable by just a fine. Most motor vehicle violations are infractions.
- Misdemeanor – A misdemeanor is a little more serious and can result in a fine, detention or probation. Sometimes it results in a combination of the three punishments. Misdemeanors include public drunkenness, assault, vandalism and petty theft.
- Felony – This is the most serious crime and results in a sentence to a state institution. Felonies include rape, murder, and most violent drug-related crimes.
Getting Help For Juvenile Offenders
California and Fresno juvenile laws, while protecting public safety, also aim to rehabilitate children. The goal is to provide supervision, guidance and counseling, which results in children being able to become productive members of society. Juvenile lawyers in Fresno help families and youth navigate the juvenile courts and fight for the child’s chance to get on the right path.
Contact a Fresno Juvenile Attorney
If your child is accused of a juvenile crime in Fresno, do not delay in contacting Berman & Schweitzer. The earlier our juvenile attorneys in Fresno get involved in the case, the better they will be able to protect your child’s rights in court. Contact us today.
