Van Nuys Juvenile Crimes Attorney

Is your minor son or daughter facing criminal charges?

When your child is charged with a crime, it is one of the scariest and most devastating times for a family. These days, a juvenile crime does not just get a slap on the wrist. Depending on the severity of the crime, the age of your child, and other circumstances, your child may even be tried as an adult. If your child is facing charges in the juvenile court system, contact a Van Nuys criminal defense attorney from our firm today. Many people may be unaware of how the juvenile courts work. They function very differently from regular state or federal courts. For example:

• In juvenile court, there is no jury. Cases are decided by a judge only.
• Minors may not be freed on bail, but a detention hearing will be held to determine if he or she will be released.
• A prosecutor will decide if the charge will be tried as a felony or a misdemeanor.

Juvenile crimes fall under one of two classifications: status offense, which are crimes because the individual is a minor, such as truancy, or curfew violation; and juvenile delinquency crimes, which are illegal for all citizens, such as drug crimes, assault and battery, and traffic offenses. However, in some cases, these crimes may lead the prosecutors to request that your child be tried as an adult, which can lead to serious punishments, such as lengthy jail time and huge monetary fines. The impact the a criminal record will have on your child's future cannot be overstated, as well, as it can prevent them from graduating high school, getting into college, and holding down a job for the rest of their lives. It is essential that you hire the best attorney you can for your child's defense.

Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Serving Van Nuys

When looking for a criminal defense attorney for your child, you need an attorney who handles each case aggressively, efficiently, and with compassion. At Lessem & Newstat, we understand the sensitivities of a juvenile crimes case, and how extremely important it is to provide your child with the best defense possible. We have over 50 years of combined experience handling juvenile cases, and attorney Mark Lessem in particular has specialized experience in juvenile defense. We serve all areas of the San Fernando Valley, including Burbank, Glendale, Sherman Oaks, Hidden Hills, San Fernando, Westlake, Sylmar, and Pasadena, so do not hesitate to contact us as soon as possible.

Contact a Van Nuys criminal defense attorney from our firm immediately if your son or daughter is facing juvenile crime charges. These charges can have a devastating effect on their future, so don't hesitate and call us now.