How The Courts Address Juvenile Crimes
The juvenile justice system aims to guide young individuals toward positive behavior and away from future offenses. Juvenile crimes fall into two main types: public offenses, which would be crimes if committed by adults, and status offenses due to the offender’s age.
Choosing the right juvenile offense attorney to represent your child, protect their rights and fight for their future is critical. You need a firm like Gatlin Voelker, PLLC, that has extensive trial experience and is not only willing to go to trial, but also prepares for it from the start.
Types Of Juvenile Charges And Penalties
We understand that teens make mistakes and work hard to ensure that these charges and penalties don’t follow them into adulthood:
Underage drinking: Underage drinking is a common juvenile offense in Kentucky. Minors caught consuming alcohol may face penalties such as fines, mandatory alcohol education programs and community service. The goal is to educate and prevent future occurrences rather than impose harsh punishments.
Driving under the influence (DUI): Juveniles charged with DUI face serious consequences, including license suspension, fines and mandatory participation in substance abuse programs. These measures aim to ensure the safety of the young driver and the community while promoting responsible behavior.
Shoplifting: Shoplifting charges for juveniles can result in penalties such as restitution to the victim, community service and participation in theft prevention programs. The focus is on making amends and understanding the impact of their actions.
Vandalism: Juveniles involved in vandalism may need to pay for damages, perform community service and attend counseling sessions. These penalties aim to foster a sense of responsibility and prevent future incidents.
Truancy: Truancy, or habitual absence from school, can lead to interventions such as counseling, community service and educational support programs. The aim is to address underlying issues and encourage regular school attendance.
Curfew violations: Curfew violations in Kentucky occur when minors under the age of 18 are found in public spaces during restricted hours without a valid exception. Violating curfews can result in fines, community service or other penalties aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of minors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are three questions we often hear when discussing juvenile crimes with parents and guardians:
What is the difference between a juvenile delinquent and a status offender?
A juvenile delinquent is a minor who has committed an act that is a crime if committed by an adult such as theft or assault. In contrast, a status offender is a minor who has engaged in behavior that is only an offense due to their age such as truancy or underage drinking. Status offenses are not criminal acts but indicate a need for intervention and support.
How is juvenile detention different from jail?
Kentucky and Ohio design juvenile detention centers to provide a safe and supportive environment for minors awaiting court decisions or serving short-term sentences. Unlike adult jails, which are primarily punitive, these facilities focus on education, counseling and rehabilitation. Juvenile detention centers aim to address the developmental needs of young offenders and prepare them for successful reintegration into society.
We Are Here To Help Your Child
If you have any questions about juvenile crimes or need legal assistance, our experienced attorneys are here to help. Contact our office in Covington today by calling +1-859-535-0155 or using this website.