If your child has been arrested and charged with a juvenile offense in Nevada, a Las Vegas juvenile crimes lawyer knows the consequences can be serious and last for years. Not only may your son or daughter face juvenile detention, he or she could have their young lives hindered by their juvenile records when it comes to educational and employment opportunities.
At De Castroverde Law Group, a Las Vegas juvenile crimes lawyer is committed to helping minors navigate the legal system after an alleged crime and getting the best possible outcome regarding the situation, whether it is a dismissal of charges, reduced charges, a reduced sentence, or a not guilty verdict. The team at De Castroverde Law Group can also use our skill and knowledge to protect your child’s rights and keep your child’s case in juvenile court as opposed to criminal court.
Common Juvenile Crimes
Juvenile crimes range from common acts of mischief like vandalism and shoplifting to more serious crimes including sexual assault, drug sales, and even murder. In the past, we have handled a wide range of juvenile offense cases, including those related to:
- Assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Drug possession
- Drug sales
- Hit-and-run car accidents
- ID theft or false ID
- Shoplifting
- Underage DUI
- Vandalism
The consequences of these Las Vegas crimes depend on a large number of factors including the seriousness of the offense, the age of the child, and the history of the child. For example, the consequences may be more serious if the child has a history of other offenses. If the child has a history of emotional problems or mental health issues, the consequences may also differ.
Minors Tried in Criminal Court
Minors can be tried as adults in Nevada if they are “certified.” In some cases, children are subject to mandatory certification, while in other cases, a judge can decide to certify a child based on the facts of the case.
A child in Las Vegas faces mandatory certification for adult criminal court when:
- The child was 16 or older at the time that the crime was committed and the charge involved sexual assault or a firearm.
- The child is charged with murder.
A child faces discretionary certification by a judge for adult criminal court when:
- The child was 14 or older at the time that the crime was committed and
- The charge would have been a felony if committed by an adult.
It is important to note that there are exceptions to these rules. For example, if a child is mentally incompetent and cannot understand the charges, he or she may not be tried as an adult. Likewise, if the child suffers from emotional problems, behavioral problems, or substance abuse problems, he or she may not be charged as an adult.
Get Experienced Legal Representation for Your Child Today
A Las Vegas juvenile crimes lawyer is here to listen to your case and help your family get through the difficult time that follows juvenile delinquency charges. During a private and free consultation, we can answer all of your questions about Nevada juvenile delinquency laws and more:
- What are the consequences of this juvenile offense?
- Can my child be tried as an adult in Nevada?
- Will these offenses stay on my child’s permanent record?
- Will these offenses affect my child’s ability to continue his or her education?
- Will these offenses affect my child’s ability to gain employment?
- Can we get my child’s charges dropped or reduced?
To speak with one of our skilled juvenile law Las Vegas criminal defense attorneys, call our offices or fill out our electronic contact form today.