Tampa Juvenile Crime Defense Lawyers

Have You or Your Child Been Arrested?

A juvenile crime is a criminal act that is committed by a minor (person below the legal age of 18). In Florida, the most common types of juvenile crimes usually involve drugs, underage drinking, violation of probation, or violence. When juveniles commit criminal offenses, they can be arrested and be charged with a crime. They will then have to go through the juvenile criminal process, which can be very stressful for them and their families.

Unlike the adult criminal process, the juvenile criminal process focuses on rehabilitating the minor instead of punishing them. Many people believe that minors are more likely to learn from their mistakes in comparison to their adult counterparts. Therefore, juveniles will often face legal consequences if they are convicted of a crime have to do with getting mental treatment, learning to obey rules, and adding structure to their day-to-day lives.

Representing Florida Minors

Having a skilled criminal attorney in your corner will play a significant role in the way the courts handle your juvenile crime case. For instance, the courts will prosecute certain juvenile offenses as adult crimes, with adult penalties. A defense lawyer will be able to negotiate with the prosecution to work to have those charges lowered. We at Thomas & Paulk are dedicated to helping minors who have been arrested or charged with a juvenile crime.