If you are a parent, one of the most frightening experiences is knowing that your child has been arrested on suspicion of breaking the law. The good news is that the Arizona Court system does not seek to punish minors who have made a mistake. Whenever possible, the Juvenile Court system looks to provide juveniles the help they need to rehabilitate and move on to a bright future. If your child is in trouble with the law, do not panic. Bretton Barber understands the juvenile system and can help protect your child’s future while obtaining any services they may need. Contact our office today for a free consultation.
Maricopa County attorney protecting the future of juveniles
If your child is arrested for breaking the law, the case proceeds differently than an adult criminal case would. In many cases, your child will be released back to your care until a hearing is set to be held in front of a Judge. Much like in an adult criminal trial, your attorney will have the opportunity to present evidence challenging the allegations made against your child. In juvenile cases, there is no jury, and a Judge alone decides if the minor committed a juvenile offense or not. If the Judge believes that the minor has committed a juvenile offense, the Judge then determines what interventions are necessary to rehabilitate the juvenile.
The Judge in a juvenile trial has a great deal of discretion when it comes to determining what “sentence” a juvenile should serve. A Judge in a juvenile case will make a recommendation based on the facts of the case and the needs of the child. Examples of common recommendations from the Court include drug and alcohol rehabilitation, probation, family counseling, community service, and in extreme circumstances, juvenile detention. Bretton Barber works diligently with the family of the juvenile in determining what the minor needs, and can often negotiate with the Juvenile Court Judge to find an outcome that the family agrees with. If your child has been arrested, it is important that you begin working with an attorney immediately. Call our office today.
Arizona attorney assisting with minor in possession charges
Persons who are under the age of 21 and are caught drinking may be charged with a minor in possession (MIP). MIP charges may also be filed if a minor is arrested in possession of another illegal substance such as marijuana. If the minor is between the ages of 13-17, the Department of Licensing will be notified within 24 hours, and the minor’s driver’s license will be automatically suspended for one year or until the minor’s 17th birthday. This occurs even if the minor in question was not driving at the time of the arrest. This policy is often heavily criticized, as minors in possession are given a far harsher license suspension than an adult who is convicted of a DUI. If you are under the age of 21 and have been arrested with alcohol, or are a parent of a minor under 18, it is important to contact an attorney immediately. It is important to fight these charges to avoid losing your driving privileges for an extended period of time. In some cases, it may be possible to apply for early reinstatement. Contact Bretton Barber today for more information.
