Experienced Juvenile Crime Defense Attorney In Rockwall

When juveniles between the ages of 10 and 17 are arrested or face criminal charges, they and their parents should work with a strong juvenile defense law firm. Our team at LBD Law, PLLC has more than a decade of experience helping children and teenagers emerge from the justice system with their lives intact.

We can provide criminal defense for minors against charges, including:

• Vandalism
• Disorderly conduct
• Underage DUI and DWI
• Property crimes
• Sexual offenses

At LBD Law, we are passionate about helping children and teens. We focus not only on the minor but also on the entire family. If Child Protective Services (CPS) intervenes in a family’s life, we will work with the parents and caseworker to protect the parents’ rights.

What To Know About Texas Juvenile Court

1. Once a police officer takes a minor into custody, they must immediately go to a processing office and contact the parents or guardians.
2. Within 48 hours, the juvenile court will hold a detention hearing where a judge will either detain the juvenile or release the minor.
3. Then, the state may file charges. At an adjudication hearing, a judge or jury will determine whether the charges against the minor are “true” or “not true.”
4. Last is the sentencing disposition. The court usually prefers to offer alternative sentencing instead of detention.

What Are The Differences Between Adult And Juvenile Court?

The biggest difference between the adult and juvenile court systems is that the juvenile court seeks to rehabilitate respondents and keep them out of detention. With that in mind, the justice system can still be very harsh on children and teenagers. A negative outcome can affect a child for the rest of their life. Partner with our lawyer, Attorney Lara Bracamonte Davila,  who understands the juvenile justice system and will work hard to defend the child you care about. We also work to appeal adjudications and expunge juvenile records.

Misdemeanor Vs. Felony Conduct

In Texas, juvenile offenses are divided into two primary categories. Conduct Indicating a Need for Supervision (CINS) covers low-level infractions like truancy, running away or Class C misdemeanors.

Conversely, Delinquent Conduct involves actions that would lead to jail or prison time if committed by an adult. These offenses include all Class A and B misdemeanors, as well as felonies.

Sealing Or Expungement Of Juvenile Crime Records

Many families believe that juvenile records are automatically erased at age 18. Unfortunately, this is a myth. Unsealed records can still be accessible, threatening future opportunities in employment, higher education and housing.

In Texas, some juvenile crime records can be sealed, meaning they are hidden from public view, allowing your child to legally state the incident never occurred. Complete expunction goes a step further by entirely destroying records, though it is usually reserved for narrow circumstances such as a dismissal or acquittal.

Alternate Sentencing Options For Juvenile Offenders In Texas

Texas juvenile courts heavily prioritize rehabilitation over detention. In Rockwall County and surrounding areas like Dallas and Kaufman counties, several diversionary and alternative programs are available to keep youth out of detention centers.

For instance, low-level or first-time offenders may qualify for Deferred Prosecution, a voluntary supervision track typically lasting three to six months. There are also Teen Courts and restorative-justice conferencing to hold youth accountable through peer-led sentencing and community integration. When a child successfully completes these diversionary requirements, the case may lead to a dismissal.

Common Questions Clients Are Asking About Juvenile Crimes In Texas

Below, we address the questions our firm hears most frequently from Texas parents.

Can my child be tried as an adult in Texas?

Under a process called discretionary transfer, a juvenile court can certify a child to stand trial as an adult. Texas courts can certify children as young as 14 for capital or first-degree felonies, and youth aged 15 or older for any other felony-level offense.

Can a juvenile record affect my child’s college applications?

An unsealed record can appear on background checks. Higher education institutions may deny admission, revoke campus housing options or restrict access to certain professional licensing and financial aid packages based on this information.

Will my child have a permanent criminal record after juvenile court?

Unless you proactively secure a court order to seal the juvenile history or the case meets strict statutory requirements for automatic restricted access at a later age, it will remain a part of their background.

Stand Up For Juveniles’ Rights

Do not hesitate to protect the rights of a child or teenager in your life. Contact LBD Law to schedule a consultation and we can help you. To reach us at our Rockwell, McKinney or Greenville offices, call 214-304-6640 or send an email.