California Juvenile law – Delinquency offenses

Juvenile Delinquency Offenses

If a minor commits a crime, the case will likely be heard in juvenile court. If the judge determines that the minor committed the crime, the minor will be labeled a “delinquent” and will face punishment.

A minor in juvenile court is not entitled to a jury trial. The minor must argue his or her case to the judge. The judge then makes the determination of whether the minor committed the crime or not. There are several stages in the juvenile court process. There is a detention hearing, a jurisdictional hearing (the trial), and a disposition hearing (sentencing) if the judge finds the minor guilty.

A detention hearing occurs if you are being held in juvenile hall. This is where you plead guilty or not guilty. You are not entitled to bail. The judge will decide whether you can be released to your parents with the promise to return on the date of your hearings. If you are not allowed to go home, you will remain you will remain in custody in juvenile hall until your trial date.

A jurisdictional hearing is your trial. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime in order for you to be convicted. You will be allowed to put on your defense. After both sides finish making their arguments, the judge will determine whether you will be found guilty or not guilty.

A disposition hearing is where the judge sentences you if you are found guilty. You may be sent to juvenile hall for a substantial period of time and be ordered to pay a fine.

It is important that you speak with an experienced juvenile crimes defense attorney. The process in juvenile court is different than an adult court. It is important you speak with an attorney who knows the specific rules relating to the juvenile court system. The attorneys at Wallin & Klarich have been representing juveniles for over 30 years. We will immediately know what to do if you are facing a juvenile charge. Call us today at (888) 749-0034 or visit us on our website at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.