The youth in Hampton, Norfolk, and across the state of Virginia have been taken into custody more often in the last two years than over the past nearly decade. The rise of the global pandemic back in 2020 is sure to have played some part in the increase in crimes.
But the penalties of juvenile convictions can follow them for years to come. And if your child has been involved in a juvenile offense or violent crime, they could be subject to harsh consequences. You can do your part to protect them in their future by getting a dedicated criminal defense lawyer at Randall, Page & Bruch, P.C. on your side.
For the majority of youth offenses, the criminal justice system in Virginia is designed to help rehabilitate young offenders. But children as young as fourteen years old could be tried as adults depending on the type of crime that they have been accused of committing. If this happens, your child could be subjected to the same types of severe penalties that hardened criminals face including life in prison without the possibility of parole.
In Hampton, Community leaders have begun to have discussions about how to address the growing number of juvenile-involved criminal offenses. They cite getting children involved in the community and off the streets as one of their best resources in helping to reduce the number of juvenile crimes.
Children who are taken into custody and charged with juvenile offenses could have their entire lives changed. The majority of juvenile offenses carry community service, probation, house arrest, fines, and other penalties. But once your child has served time in a juvenile detention facility, they may struggle to rebuild their lives and find purpose once released. This is how many individuals become lifelong offenders. For this reason, it is essential that you take action to protect your child and their future.
The criminal justice system for kids in Virginia has several juvenile justice and youth services programs that at-risk youth may participate in an effort to help them avoid the types of behaviors that will result in criminal offenses.
You may also want to consider whether a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program may be a good fit for your child if substance abuse issues are putting them at risk for juvenile offenses.
And when your child has already been taken into custody and charged with a juvenile offense, you need to make sure that you have a strong legal advocate fighting for their rights on your side.
Has your child recently been taken into custody and charged with a juvenile offense? If so, you may be worried and scared for their future. The penalties associated with juvenile convictions can be harsh.
Do your best to protect them and retain an experienced Hampton criminal defense lawyer at Randall, Page & Bruch, P.C. Schedule your initial consultation when you fill out our online contact form or give our office a call at 757-742-6115.
