New Jersey Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorneys
Minor Crimes
Even a minor juvenile criminal charge in Princeton New Jersey may come as a shock to parents who thought their kids were on the right track. Parents may be worried that a small violation of the law could lead to larger ones later, or that it could haunt their teens into adulthood, limiting opportunities for schooling, jobs and success. There may also be consequences that affect the whole family, including steep fines.
Many of the least serious New Jersey juvenile crimes are statutory or "status" crimes -- that is, they're only crimes because the offender is under 18. Others are crimes that don't involve violence or significant loss of property. They could include:
- Local curfew violations
- Truancy (skipping school)
- Graffiti or vandalism
- Running away
- Fighting with other kids
- Low-level shoplifting
Even though these are relatively minor matters, they can still carry fines, community service and even time in local jail or juvenile detention in New Jersey -- where kids may be exposed to exactly the wrong influences. They may also attract the unwanted attention of truancy officers and other government officials.
If your child is accused of a juvenile crime, you may be upset and worried about his or her future. Lependorf & Silverstein can help. We are an experienced New Jersey juvenile criminal defense law firm. Based in Princeton, we help families throughout New Jersey who are caught in the juvenile justice system. We believe that every child, no matter what the charge, deserves a second chance. Because we've practiced law in the state for 15 years, we fully understand the complexities and special aspects of the juvenile justice system. And because we offer free, no-obligation consultations, there's no risk in speaking to one of our experienced New Jersey juvenile criminal defense attorney about your child's rights and his or her case.
If you or a loved one has been accused of juvenile crimes in New Jersey, contact Lependorf & Silverstein today for a free consultation.