North Georgia Juvenile Defense Lawyer
Every criminal charge deserves a robust criminal defense, and this includes criminal charges against juveniles. When a juvenile is charged with a crime, it can have a major impact on their future, including their ability to gain entry into a college or university, find meaningful work and live a rewarding life.
If your child has been charged with a juvenile crime, one of the most important things that you can do is to hire an attorney like Walter Lutes at the Law Offices of Walter L. Lutes, P.C. Walter Lutes understands the often complicated nature of juvenile law and how important it is that your child receives dedicated legal services. Read about the importance of hiring a North Georgia juvenile defense lawyer after your child has been charged with a juvenile crime.
The Need For A Juvenile Law Attorney
Many people assume that juvenile law is exactly the same as laws that apply to adults. While this is true to a certain extent, there are some differences in juvenile law that can make these cases difficult if you don’t have legal experience. After your child has been charged with a juvenile crime and released back into your custody, you need to be sure to consult with a juvenile defense lawyer in North Georgia like Walter Lutes.
Walter Lutes and his team at the Law Offices of Walter L. Lutes, P.C., can discuss your child’s case and how it may impact their future. This can include issues like the likelihood of the case being heard in criminal court instead of juvenile court and whether the charge will be included in your child’s permanent criminal record.
Types Of Juvenile Crime Charges
Similar to adults, juveniles in Georgia can be charged with a variety of juvenile crimes. While some of these may be minor, such as a traffic violation, others can be extremely serious. Repeated charges for underage drinking or drug possession, for example, can lead to lasting consequences.
Whether your child is facing a major or a minor charge, you need advice and legal representation from the Law Offices of Walter L. Lutes, P.C. Walter Lutes can help you plan your child’s defense so that their mistake doesn’t permanently damage their future.
Georgia Juvenile Defense FAQs
If your child has run into trouble with the law and you are grappling with what comes next, Walter Lutes understands your predicament. Here are answers to frequently asked questions about juvenile crimes in North Georgia.
What are the rights of juveniles during police questioning in Georgia?
Juveniles have the same basic constitutional rights as adults, including the right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney. However, minors often do not fully understand what these rights mean or how to exercise them.
When police question a juvenile, they must make a reasonable effort to contact a parent or guardian. A parent or lawyer should ideally be present during questioning. However, in some cases, officers proceed without one. If a child gives a statement without understanding their rights, that statement can still be used in court.
Parents should remind their children to stay calm, avoid answering questions until help is available and always ask for a lawyer before speaking. Protecting these rights early can make a major difference later in the case.
Can a juvenile be tried as an adult in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia law allows certain juvenile cases to be transferred to adult court, depending on the seriousness of the offense and the child’s age. Crimes such as aggravated assault, armed robbery and homicide may lead to a transfer request by prosecutors.
Before the transfer is approved, a judge considers several factors, including:
- The nature and severity of the offense
- The child’s age and prior record
- The potential for rehabilitation through the juvenile system
Being tried as an adult means facing harsher penalties and losing the rehabilitative focus of juvenile court. In most cases, keeping a case in juvenile court gives the child a better chance at education, treatment and a clean record after completion of the program.
Are there diversion programs available for juveniles in North Georgia?
Yes. Many counties in Georgia offer diversion or intervention programs for first-time offenders. These programs focus on accountability and personal growth instead of punishment. They often include:
- Community service
- Counseling or therapy
- Educational workshops or drug classes
- Restitution to victims
Completing these programs can lead to charges being dismissed or records being sealed. This helps young people move forward without a criminal history. Participation also shows the court a willingness to learn from mistakes, something that can influence outcomes in future proceedings.
Work With The Law Offices of Walter L. Lutes, P.C.
If your child is facing a juvenile criminal charge, it can be a very stressful situation, which is why you need the guidance of Walter Lutes and his team at the Law Offices of Walter L. Lutes, P.C. Serving areas in North Georgia including Forsyth County, Cobb County and Marietta, the Law Offices of Walter L. Lutes, P.C. is ready to help with your juvenile law case. Call the Law Offices of Walter L. Lutes, P.C., today at 770-479-1400 or send an email to discuss the facts of your child’s case.