Chicago Juvenile Arrests Attorney

Before a child reaches his/her 17^th birthday there is a presumption under the law that they are to be considered and treated as a Juvenile. In certain circumstances teens under 17 can be treated as an adult and have to answer charges in the adult courts.

If your child has been charged, or is being questioned regarding any criminal activity, you need to know his rights as well as yours as a parent or guardian. Although the juvenile court system has been designed to protect the child, a finding of delinquency can have serious effects on the child’s future. Call Chicago juvenile arrests attorney Michael A. Johnson to learn about your rights.

Penalties for Juvenile Crimes in Illinois

Penalties for crimes committed by a juvenile can vary. Courts tend to focus on rehabilitation for juvenile offenders, and therefore penalties can include counseling, probation, fines and community service. However, certain crimes can still lead to jail time. Some crimes can result in a juvenile being tried as an adult. 

When can a Juvenile be Tried as an Adult?

In the state of Illinois, anyone under the age of 17 is considered a juvenile. However, anyone 13 years old and above can be tried as an adult if he or she has a record of previously breaking the law or commits a serious crime. Minors that are 15-16 years old are automatically tried as adults for certain offenses, such as murder, aggravated criminal sexual assault or armed robbery with a firearm.

Expunging Juvenile Criminal Records

Juvenile court records are typically kept confidential in the state of Illinois, but they may be disclosed to potential employers, schools or any agency that may need to perform a background check on you. For this reason, it is important that you apply to expunge your juvenile record if you can.

If you are eligible to have your record expunged, it will be hidden from public view and treated as though it never existed. While certain agencies, such as law enforcement agencies and the military, may still be able to access to it, you are otherwise not required to disclose the existence of your expunged juvenile record to anyone.

Experienced Juvenile Criminal Defense in Illinois

Michael A. Johnson has represented teenagers in both Juveniles and adult courts for over 30 years. Don’t treat these matters lightly, you need qualified legal help in these difficult times, contact Michael A. Johnson before it’s too late at 312-222-0660.