If an individual under 18 years of age is accused of a crime, most likely that person will be considered a juvenile in the court system and end up in juvenile court. When a minor is charged of a crime, often the minor is arrested and sent to juvenile detention center.
Common types of delinquent acts or crimes prosecuted in the juvenile courts throughout Nevada include:
- Marijuana possession
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Shoplifting
- Theft
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Battery
- Sexual misconduct with a younger child
- Probation violation
The Difference Between Juvenile Court & Adult Court
At a minor’s first court appearance, he or she will either admit or deny the allegation against them. In adult court, on the other hand, the defendants either plead guilty or not guilty to the charges.
While juvenile charges are treated less like criminal offenses in the court system, the results and consequences can be similar. If a minor committed an offense, they can be convicted of a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony which are associated with detention sentences, fines, community service, or counseling.
However, children can be tried as adults for the following serious crimes:
- A minor age 13 and up can be tried as an adult for homicide or attempted homicide
- A minor age 14 and up can be tried as an adult for most felony offenses
- A minor age 16 and up can be tried as an adult for sexual assault or attempted sexual assault
How an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
The large of the juvenile system focuses on rehabilitation, as opposed to punishment. The judge, probation, counselors, and attorneys work together to determine what is the best course of action for the minor to make sure any troublesome behavior is charged and not repeated.
The Law Office of David R. Fischer is experienced with the juvenile court system in Nevada. If you have a minor who has been accused of a criminal offense, our Las Vegas criminal defense attorney is ready to protect your child’s rights, reputation, and future.
Call to request a free consultation today.