Juvenile Crimes

Newark Juvenile Defense Attorney

By definition, a juvenile crime is any crime committed by a person less than 18 years of age. If your child has been arrested for a crime, seek legal help immediately. An experienced juvenile crimes defense attorney can ensure your child will receive the best possible outcome.

For help today with a juvenile offense, call the law offices of Joseph D. Rotella at 973-621-0333 and schedule a free initial consultation.

The Consequences of a Juvenile Offense

If your child is arrested for a crime, it is important to understand the consequences:

• If your child is adjudicated as a juvenile delinquent, the crime will remain on his or her criminal record and may result in higher penalties for any convictions as an adult.
• Children who are 16 or 17 years old may be sent to the youth house until their 21st birthday.
• If your child is tried in adult court, all the adult penalties will apply except for capital punishment. Your child could be subject to life imprisonment.
• Often, the first 24 hours following your child’s arrest is the most critical period of time in your child’s case. To protect your child’s future, it is essential that you have competent legal representation. Early involvement from the law offices of Joseph D. Rotella can prevent your child from unknowingly providing incriminating statements and evidence to police.

Before your child talks to police or anyone else, talk to juvenile defense lawyer Joseph Rotella.

Skilled and Familiar With the Juvenile Justice System

As a certified criminal trial attorney, Joseph Rotella is recognized as an expert in criminal cases, including juvenile crimes. He is also board-certified as a criminal trial specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

As a certified criminal trial attorney and a criminal trial specialist, Mr. Rotella knows the various diversionary programs that are available for juveniles to avoid incarceration. He is experienced in defending juveniles charged with serious crimes, such as:

• Drug crimes
• Sex crimes such as date rape and sexual assault
• Underage drinking
• Robbery
• Gun crimes
• Auto theft
• Receiving stolen property

Your Child’s Best Interests

In cases involving juveniles, the court is supposed to consider the best interests of the juvenile. A goal of any court action is to rehabilitate the juvenile rather than seek punishment. Unlike an adult trial where guilt or innocence is determined by a jury, juveniles are adjudicated by a family law judge.

As a criminal defense attorney with 33 years of experience, Mr. Rotella is familiar with the juvenile court system and family law judges. As a result, he can more effectively represent juvenile clients.