Sandefer Law Firm - Juvenile Crimes Defense Attorney

Larry Sandefer - Juvenile Offense Defense Lawyer
Serving Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay and the State of Florida

Juvenile offenses are treated much differently by the courts and by the prosecuting authority than our adult offenses. Juveniles accused of crimes are charged with “acts of delinquency”. Often juveniles are referred to the Juvenile Assessment Center where counselors speak with them and make a recommendation as to whether they should be placed into the court system or in a diversion program.

Once in the court system there are many things that may occur regarding charges against a juvenile. These can range from probation, acceptance onto a “plan”, or placement in a program or camp. These different possibilities depend on the type of offense, past arrests, the age of the juvenile, and other factors.

Anyone under the age of 18 is considered a juvenile unless they have been previously certified up as an adult. A juvenile may be certified up as an adult by the state attorney’s office without judicial approval under certain circumstances and based upon age. Upon motion, a judge may certify a case up to adult court.

If a juvenile is certified as an adult he or she is subject to adult penalties. There are instances in which a juvenile who has been certified as an adult may still be able to be sentenced “back down” as a juvenile. The Department of juvenile Justice is very heavily involved in juvenile charges and the recommendation of the DJJ is very important to a disposition on a case. It is often beneficial for a juvenile’s attorney to become involved early after an arrest in dealing with the Department of juvenile Justice. It may also be beneficial for an experienced defense attorney to have early contact with the office of the state attorney.

Sandefer Law Firm is experienced in the representation of juveniles and can assist the parent and the juvenile in understanding the court system and determining what options are available and what choices can be made. Please contact us for a free consultation.

Please Contact us today for your free initial consultation.
We can answer questions for you frankly and honestly and discuss options for you. Our consultation is confidential. It is important to discuss your case with an experienced attorney. Sandefer law firm represents people in the Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Pasco County, and Tampa Bay area, as well as the state of Florida.

Sandefer Law Firm trial attorneys represent individuals in Criminal Defense, DUI Defense, Drug Crimes, Domestic Violence, Sex Crimes, and Personal Injury cases throughout the Tampa Bay Florida area including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Seminole, Pinellas Park, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, New Port Richey, Pasadena, St. Pete Beach, Indian Rocks Beach, Redington Beach, Bradenton, Sarasota, Ft. Myers, and all surrounding areas.