Juvenile Crime Attorneys in The Woodlands Protecting Your Child’s Future After a Criminal Charge

Most parents spend their lives trying to create better opportunities for their children so they have promising futures. Committing a juvenile crime can change all of that. In Texas, juveniles are considered minor children between the ages of 10 and 17.

Some juvenile crimes are only illegal because of a child’s age, while others are serious criminal offenses. Common examples of juvenile offenses include curfew violations, loitering and mischief, truancy, littering, vandalism, running away from home, and possession of marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco.

Many juvenile crimes are considered class C misdemeanors, and others might result in a slap on the wrist. Minors also can be tried for serious crimes like assault and murder. It’s best not to take chances with your child’s future, as the juvenile justice system can be unpredictable. Morgan Bourque Attorney at Law, has your kids’ best interests in mind.

What are Examples of Juvenile Crimes?

Juvenile crimes are similar to adult crimes. Juvenile crimes are charged differently in some cases, depending on the offense. Examples of juvenile crimes include:

• Curfew violations
• Truancy
• Vandalism
• Bullying and harassment
• Assault
• Loitering
• False reports, such as bomb threats
• Forgery
• Fraud
• Shoplifting
• Reckless endangerment
• Possession of alcohol and drugs

This is not an exhaustive list of juvenile crimes, but examples of offenses minors commit in Texas. A child can be charged with criminal offenses after their 10^th birthday and face the consequences such as time in a juvenile detention center, jail time, fines, and probation. While rare, children can be tried as adults for serious crimes like murder.

Children are vulnerable and make mistakes, but they also need to face the consequences of their actions. We will help you and your children get back on track after a juvenile charge.

Who Commits Juvenile Crimes in Texas and Why?

Boys and girls between the ages of 10 and 17 can be charged with a juvenile crime in Texas. Studies show that young boys are more likely to commit juvenile crimes and 80 percent more likely to commit violent juvenile offenses. Other statistics regarding juvenile crimes include:

• Girls are more likely to run away from home and arrested for it
• Property crimes like graffiti and vandalism are some of the most common juvenile crimes
• Boys are more likely to commit underage drinking offenses

Certain risk factors are tied to juvenile crimes, including childhood abuse, poverty, parents with a criminal history, and association with delinquent peer groups. Minors commit crimes for many reasons, not only because of a disadvantaged background.

What is the Juvenile Justice System?

Making mistakes is part of youth and growing up. Kids face temptations, good and bad, such as drug use and peer influences. The juvenile justice system in Texas recognizes this as part of its program and places importance on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

The First Offender program is an excellent example of this. A juvenile convicted of a crime that qualifies for the First Offender program might be sentenced to community service, counseling, and restitution to the victim.

There are different sentencing options Morgan Bourque Attorney at Law, will pursue to achieve the best outcome for your child’s case and future.

How Can a Juvenile Crime Lawyer Help My Child?

It’s a scary thing as a parent when your child gets into trouble with the law. No matter the size, a juvenile conviction can impact a child’s future in different ways, including opportunities for employment, the military, education, and much more.

About 2.1 million minors in the United States are arrested annually for disorderly conduct, weapon and drug possession, loitering, and reckless endangerment. Children have rights as adults do and need help and guidance when bad decisions get them into trouble.

We advocate for children in court, help speed up the judicial process, and work toward a favorable outcome and sentencing option fitting your child’s case and prevailing circumstances. Contact our attorneys to discuss legal representation if your child is facing a severe or minor juvenile conviction. Contact us today: 713-766-3733.