ORLANDO CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS AND DUI ATTORNEYS
JUVENILE CRIMES INFORMATION:
The Juvenile Justice system for those arrested under the age of
18 is different than the criminal justice system that handles adult
offenders.  However, the State must still prove that the juvenile
committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt in order for
them to be found guilty.  

Before your child pleads guilty to a crime which may have serious
repercussions on their future, speak with Criminal Defense Lawyer.  
Even in cases involving overwhelming evidence of guilt, a well
prepared defense can result in reduced charges and/or penalties
for the accused.   

At our Orlando law firm, we've handle hundreds of cases involving juveniles accused of committing
criminal offense.  Call us today at (407) 648-5255 for a Free Case Review of your individual
situation.

The following section provides some general information about the juvenile justice system:

Juvenile Rights - a child charged with a crime has the same rights as an adult including:

  • The privilege against compulsory self-incrimination which includes the right to plead not guilty.
  • The right to a trial in which the State must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
  • The right to a speedy trial.
  • The right to confront the witnesses against them.
  • The right to compulsory process to obtain witnesses in their favor.
  • The right to have the effective assistance of counsel for their defense at trial.
  • The right to appeal.
  • The right to present any defense on their behalf.

Arrest of a Juvenile - In some cases involving minor criminal offenses committed by a child, the
police may issue a notice to appear instead of arresting the child.  If the child is arrested, they are
not taken to the County Jail, but are instead transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center where
they are processed. The police and the facility are required to attempt to contact the child's parent
or guardian as soon as practical after an arrest.  

  • Orange County Juvenile Assessment Center is located at 823 W Central Boulevard, Orlando,
    Florida, and their phone number is (407) 836-8800.
  • Osceola County Juvenile Assessment Center is located at 2330 New Beginnings Road,
    Kissimmee, FL 34744, and their phone number is (407) 943-3055 Ext 135 or 100.
  • Seminole County Juvenile Assessment Center is located at 181 Bush Loop, Sanford, Florida,
    and their phone number is (407) 665-2400.

Arrest Records - the arrest record of the child are confidential and not accessible to the general
public, unlike an adult.  

Detention & Release - Once the child is processed, they may be released back to the custody of
their parents in certain cases.  In other cases, involving more serious offenses the child will be
transported to the County Juvenile Detention Center.   This center is similar to the Jail in many
respects but is designed for children so that there is no contact with adult offenders.  

If the child is detained they will be seen by a Judge at a first appearance hearing within 24 hours,
and the Judge will determine whether they should remain detained or be released to the Parent or
Guardian.  Parents or Guardians should make every effort to be present when the child is brought
before the Judge at this hearing.   To learn more about the Juvenile Detention Facilities in Orange,
Osceola and Seminole County, please visit the following links:


Defense - Juveniles can use the same defenses available to adult offenders.

Discovery - The defense may obtain copies of or view the evidence the State intends to use at
trial.  In Felony cases this included the right to depose any State witnesses.

Trial - a child is subject to a trial before a judge instead of a jury of their peers.   

Penalties - Juvenile Court can range from a Judicial Warning to the Commitment of the child to a
Juvenile Center or Program.  In addition to these immediate penalties, many professions and
schools require full disclosure of both juvenile records, affecting future opportunities throughout
their lives.  In certain cases, depending on the age and severity of the crime, the State Attorney's
Office may decide to charge the crime in adult court, subjecting the Juvenile to adult sanctions,
including jail or prison time.  

Call us today at (407) 648-5255 to speak directly with an Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney: about
your individual situation.
For more information about some of the criminal charges we provide representation on,
please visit the links below:
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The hiring of an attorney is an important decision which should not be based solely on advertisements.  The information presented at this site is not legal
advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship.  This site is designed to provide only general information.  The facts of your case are unique,
and you should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.  We invite you to contact us to speak with an Orlando DUI Lawyer at your
earliest convenience to schedule a consultation.