A juvenile crime is a specific act that is prohibited by law. Whether committed by a juvenile or adult, a crime is classified by the serious of the offense. A juvenile can be charged with any of the following crimes; however, they can be charged with offenses that are unique to a youth.
Under California law, juveniles do not commit crimes; they commit delinquent acts. They do not have a constitutional right to a jury trial unless tried as an adult. If tried as an adult, the penalties could be more severe. A child is entitled to an attorney, notice of the charges before a hearing, the right to cross-examine witnesses and the right to the Fifth Amendment privilege. The prosecution must prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt to convict.
Palm Desert Juvenile Crimes Lawyers of Coachella Valley
Charges
- Infraction – the least serious offense; penalty is usually a fine
- Misdemeanor – less serious offense; offender sentenced to county detention in a juvenile facility or jail, a fine, probation or all three. Crimes include petty theft, assault and battery or public drunkenness
- Felony – most serious; penalty includes sentence in a state youth facility or adult prison. Crimes include sex offenses, violence, or drug violations
Specific crimes
Being arrested can be a devastating experience for any child. Under California criminal law, juveniles are held accountable to the same laws as adults; however, their crimes are tried in a separate criminal justice system. The most common crimes committed by juveniles include:
- Theft
- Drug possession
- Reckless driving
- Vandalism
- Rape
- Assault and Battery
- Drunk driving
The Juvenile System
California’s juvenile justice system is different from the adult justice system because juveniles should be treated differently than adults. The juvenile system concentrates on treatment and rehabilitation rather than harsh punishment. The juvenile system is made up of social service agencies, community organizations and schools.
If your child is being charged with a juvenile crime, you need an experienced Criminal Law Attorney who is familiar with the Juvenile Justice System. The Palm Springs juvenile crimes attorneys at the Law Office of Dale Gribow will stand by your child’s side and give him or her the personal attention he or she needs to get through this devastating time.