California Juvenile Criminal Defense LawyersLos Angeles Juvenile Crime AttorneysMost criminal charges against children and teenagers under 18 are handled by California’s juvenile court system. The juvenile courts are set up to meet the special needs of young people charged with crimes; they have no juries and strict rules about releasing minors to parents when appropriate. However, juveniles can -- and usually should -- have a defense lawyer present throughout the juvenile criminal justice process. Unlike adult courts, the juvenile courts focus on rehabilitation and education rather than punishment. However, that doesn’t mean Los Angeles juvenile charges aren’t very serious. The consequences of a juvenile conviction can follow a teenager or child well into adulthood. Vandalism, for example, can be charged as a felony if the damage is substantial, and juvenile records aren’t automatically sealed and destroyed in California. The penalties for juvenile crimes could include incarceration in juvenile correction facilities until age 25, as well as steep fines or restitution. And changes in the law mean that juveniles accused of serious or violent crimes may be charged as adults -- which could throw a young teenager into a population of adult criminals with very little protection. Perhaps worst of all, a juvenile conviction can devastate teenagers’ futures. Time in lock-up replaces time the teen would have spent with family, schoolwork, sports and other influences that can help guide kids to college, careers and good choices. Because the juvenile justice system is so different from the adult system, it’s very important to hire a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney with significant experience in juvenile courts -- like the attorneys at Takakjian, Sowers & Sitkoff. As former prosecutors, all of our attorneys have extensive experience in juvenile justice proceedings. We understand the special needs of juvenile defendants, and we understand how to protect parents’ interests at every step. We will work to keep your child out of lock-up and in your custody, reduce or dismiss charges, and if necessary, out of adult court. Takakjian, Sowers & Sitkoff is a Los Angeles juvenile criminal defense law firm with a unique edge: Every one of our partners is a former Los Angeles County deputy district attorney, and each one has additional qualifications that puts us head and shoulders above other defense firms. Attorney Paul Takakjian is a State Bar-certified criminal law specialist; attorney Don Sowers is a former police detective and prosecutor who specialized in vehicular homicide; and attorney Steve Sitkoff is a former Superior Court Commissioner. Our experience on the other side of the table gives us an intimate knowledge of how law enforcement and prosecutors build cases -- knowledge that gives your defense a winning edge. We know the judges and prosecutors in Los Angeles, and we know where to look for errors and omissions in your case that can set you free. That knowledge is reflected in our record of successes, which includes many cases where we were able to get parole, community service or fines instead of lock-up for juvenile offenders. Children and teens charged with a crime face extremely serious negative consequences for schooling, family and their future prospects. Don’t let your child suffer unnecessarily. For a free evaluation of your case, call the Los Angeles juvenile crime defense lawyers at Takakjian, Sowers & Sitkoff. Takakjian, Sowers & Sitkoff has an outstanding reputation for getting our clients superior results using the expertise, experience and knowledge of our juvenile criminal attorneys and staff. We offer reasonable fees and have offices conveniently located throughout California.
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California Juvenile Criminal Lawyer Disclaimer: The California juvenile criminal defense, felony, misdemeanor, or other legal criminal defense information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice, nor the formation of a lawyer or attorney client relationship. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Please contact a California Juvenile Crime Lawyer or Minor Criminal Defense Attorney for a consultation on your particular criminal defense matter. This web site is not intended to solicit clients for matters outside of the state of California.
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