Working To Protect Your Child’s Future After An Arrest Or Criminal Charge
When crimes are committed by individuals who are under the age of 18, they fall into the category of juvenile law. These cases, sometimes called juvenile delinquency cases, are handled by a branch of the criminal justice system that is separate from adult court. Juvenile court is typically focused on rehabilitation and helping the minor to get back on the right track.
If you are the parent of a child who is facing criminal charges in juvenile court, talk to attorney Mike Winters at The Law Office Of Michael T. Winters in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. With more than 25 years of experience protecting the rights of adults and minors, Mike is a trusted advocate who knows the laws. He can explain what your child is facing, the impact of the charges on their future and how he can fight to protect them in and out of court.
Types Of Juvenile Crimes
Though minors can commit any types of crime that an adult can, there are types of crimes that are more frequently committed by juveniles. These crimes include:
- Fighting and assault
- Theft and shoplifting
- Vandalism
- Trespassing
- Skipping school (truancy)
- Driving under the influence (DUI/drunk driving)
- Underage drinking or the purchase of alcohol while underage
- Underage smoking or the purchase of cigarettes while underage
Why Juveniles Should Have A Lawyer
While it is a good idea for anyone of any age to have an attorney on their side when fighting criminal allegations, it is especially important for juveniles. Children and minors are at enhanced risk of having their futures impacted by a finding of delinquency on even a seemingly minor charge.
Mike Winters understands how devastating it can be for an entire family to be dealing with juvenile law issues. He works to ensure that the child is protected and that the parents are kept informed at every stage of the case. He is committed to protecting the juvenile’s rights throughout the entirety of the case and working with the prosecution to minimize the impact of the situation.
In addition to your lawyer being able to protect your child throughout the process of handling the case, Mike is also able to advise clients on the potential to expunge the conviction in the future. Many juvenile charges and convictions can be expunged from a record. So, if they cannot initially be dismissed and an adjudication of delinquency is rendered, there is still hope for a clear criminal record in the future.
Mike Winters is a Court Appointed Juvenile Hearing Officer
In October of 2023, Mike’s legal experience and reputation with the Court and legal community led him to be appointed to serve as a Juvenile Court Hearing Officer in the Lancaster County Common Pleas Juvenile Court Division. As a Hearing Officer, Mike conducts juvenile detention hearings and makes recommendations to the Court, although it precludes him from accepting juvenile court cases in Lancaster County.
Get In Touch With The Law Office Of Michael T. Winters Today
Call the firm at 717-584-1895 or send an email to schedule a consultation regarding your juvenile law questions and concerns.