Rochester Juvenile Crimes Attorney

Defense for Your Loved One When It's Needed Most

Has your child been accused of committing a crime? When a child is under the age of 18 and is charged with a crime, they will be facing a different legal process than would an adult who committed the same offense. In the State of Michigan, a crime committed by a juvenile is known as a delinquency action. These charges, however, are just as serious as adult charges because of the negative effect they can have on the child's future. It could affect where the child is able to attend school as well as what types of jobs they are able to secure. There are certain crimes where the child's age is what makes it an offense. For example, there is an age limit regarding who can be in possession of tobacco or alcohol. There is also the potential that they commit a sex crime because they are under the age of consent or they may be out past curfew. If you have questions regarding juvenile crimes contact our Michigan criminal defense attorney at your earliest convenience.

Underage Drinking & Driving

Another very common juvenile crime is drunk driving. Throughout the country, it is against the law to drive with a blood alcohol content of 0.08%. If, however, the individual was under the age of 21, any amount of alcohol in the system could result in DUI. The reason for this is that Michigan operates under the zero tolerance law. The penalties for a first violation of the zero tolerance law could be a fine of $250 and 360 hours of community service. If the individual commits the same offense within 7 years, however, the fine could increase to $500 and they could be imprisoned for up to 93 days. Not only is it illegal to drink and drive, but Michigan's minor in possession law also states that it is against the law for a juvenile to purchase or consume an alcoholic beverage.

These matters are crucial to defend since a young individual that made a mistake or was wrongfully charged can have their life set off on the wrong path as a result of a conviction. If sentenced, the penalties will depend on the crime committed and if the young individual is being tried as an adult or a minor. They can face community service, time in a juvenile detention facility, fines, jail time and more depending on the route their case takes.