Omaha Juvenile Defense Lawyer

A criminal conviction can derail a young person’s entire life and limit their career and education options.  The consequences of a conviction may go beyond a fine, probation, or time in prison. That minor may have their options limited if they want to attend a university, be eligible for scholarships, enlist in the military, or pursue their desired career.

An Omaha juvenile defense lawyer with Berry Law can help you understand your options and determine your best course of action. Throughout the legal process, an aggressive defense attorney can advocate for your rights and work towards the best possible outcome while safeguarding your rights or the rights of your child.

Common Crimes involving Juveniles

Some actions are considered crimes strictly because of the accused’s age, such as possession of alcohol or cigarettes under the legal age or presenting a fake identification card in an attempt to appear older. The law prohibits other actions regardless of the actor’s age but may treat them differently when the defendant is a juvenile. Some of the most common charges that teens in Nebraska face include:

• Assault and battery
• Sexual assault
• Drug possession
• Cyberbullying
• Driving under the influence
• Child pornography

Regardless of the specific charge, it is important to team up with an experienced Omaha juvenile defense lawyer who can help fight the allegations.

Consequences of Criminal Offenses

The legal process for a juvenile depends largely on how the crime is charged. If the government charges the teen as a minor, the case may go before a juvenile court. Some acts that are frequently handled in juvenile court include chronic absences from school and theft. The juvenile court may issue the following punishments:

• Detention at a youth center
• Probation
• Out-of-home placement in a secure facility
• Involvement in a youth rehabilitation center

Although the court is generally more lenient with punishments in a juvenile case, a juvenile record may nonetheless affect a child’s ability to get into college or find employment. If, on the other hand, the juvenile is charged as an adult, they may face the same penalties as any other adult. Therefore, it is essential to build a strong defense or work with an attorney to attempt to avoid adult criminal court entirely.

School Disciplinary Procedures

Though punishment from a criminal court may be devastating, a young person may also face discipline from his or her school. A high school or college may conduct separate disciplinary proceedings. Depending on the specific circumstances, they may expel the student.

Fighting Back

Because of the long-term implications criminal charges may have on a young person, it is important to fight any accusation aggressively. Defending a case in juvenile court or against a school disciplinary proceeding is vastly different from an adult criminal case. Therefore, it is crucial to work with an attorney who has experience in these types of cases. Depending on the circumstances, an experienced attorney may be able to successfully argue that the court should charge the defendant as a child instead of an adult.

Get in Touch with an Omaha Juvenile Defense Lawyer

If you or your child is facing criminal allegations, it is important to review your options and reach out for professional help. An Omaha juvenile defense lawyer can work with you to fight for the best possible outcome. Throughout the legal process, a dedicated attorney can fight on your behalf. Call Berry Law today for a confidential case evaluation to discuss your options.