Category Archives: Juvenile Crimes
Addressing Teens Who Commit Serious Crimes
Crime and punishment have pushed society for remedies for as long as we can remember. We have a criminal justice system, but often struggle with the meaning of the word justice. The concept becomes even more difficult when juvenile offenders are involved. Unfortunately, it’s a quandary that seems to be growing in scope. Juvenile… Read More »
Why It’s Wrong To Charge Juveniles In Adult Courts
The American criminal justice system has come a long way—although in some ways it seems to be taking a page from the past. There was a time that everyone was treated exactly the same by the system—regardless of gender, mental illness, or age. Anyone convicted of a crime was sent to the same place,… Read More »
Is A Police Presence In Florida Schools Solving Problems Or Creating Them?
Mass shootings in public schools spurred a response that includes increasing the number of officers on school campuses across the Sunshine State. Proponents argue that more uniformed bodies act as a deterrent to potential catastrophe, while those opposed to the dramatic intensification of a police presence believe it has detrimental effects on students. A… Read More »
Even in Juvenile Cases, the State Must Prove Guilt “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt”
Juvenile crimes may not carry the same penalties as adult criminal charges. But they can still leave your teenage son or daughter with a record that can follow them into their adult years. That is why it is critical to ensure no child is adjudicated delinquent unless the state can meet its burden of… Read More »
Florida Supreme Court Strikes Down Mandatory Life Sentences for Teenage Offenders
Most juvenile crimes in Florida are handled outside of the normal court system. This affords teenagers charged with an offense the opportunity for rehabilitation. But in severe cases such as murder, even a teenager can be tried, convicted, and sentenced as an adult. In recent years, this has led the U.S. and Florida supreme… Read More »
In Florida, Juvenile Criminal Records May Not Be Confidential
Teenagers who have been charged with a juvenile offense, such as a DUI or a drug charge, can benefit from the assistance of an experienced Florida juvenile defense attorney to navigate the juvenile justice system. For most juvenile offenses, rehabilitative options such as community service and diversion programs are available to help young individuals… Read More »