Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Georgetown and Dover
If you are a parent, don’t use the criminal justice system to teach your child a lesson. Criminal detention is not necessary for most children and can result in consequences you would never intend for your child.
At the Law Office of Ronald D. Phillips Jr. P. A. in Georgetown and Dover, I offer a free initial consultation if your child has been accused of a crime.
Juvenile Delinquency and Criminal Records
Juveniles are not entitled to jury trials. Instead, their cases are tried by a judge or commissioner, who has the power to make an adjudication of juvenile delinquency. The penalties can range from probation with counseling, to serving time in a juvenile detention center, to adult prison.
Most people think that juvenile records will go away when the child reaches age 18. However, this is not the case. Juvenile records will remain a part of your child's criminal record unless they are expunged.
Keeping Your Child Out of the Criminal Justice System
The problem with the criminal justice system is that it tends to treat all children alike. It can also punish mistakes severely. For example, if your child commits a technical violation of probation while going through a state counseling program, he or she can end up back before a judge and face harsh consequences.
As your child's lawyer, I can help you seek a private counseling program so we can ensure that the focus remains on rehabilitation − not punishment. I can also seek to have your child's arrest records expunged so his or her future is not damaged by past mistakes.
I am experienced in defending juveniles charged with all types of crimes, including:
- Underage drinking
- Drug charges such as possession of marijuana or cocaine
- Vandalism and criminal mischief
- Shoplifting
- Theft and burglary
- Assault
Attorney Consultation
If your child faces juvenile charges, I would like to meet with you in person to discuss your case. To schedule a free initial consultation at my Georgetown or Dover office, please call 866-383-8682 or fill out the contact form on this site.
