When Children Are Accused of Crimes in New York
If your child is charged with a crime as a juvenile, the case is considered a civil proceeding and not a criminal case. While the case will be handled in family court, the consequences can still be very serious. Depending on the offense, your child can be placed on probation, put in group home, or sent to a secure setting that is similar to a prison and kept there until he or she reaches age 21.
If your son or daughter has been charged with an offense as a juvenile in New York, attorney Andrew A. Bokser can guide you through the family court process and ensure that your child's rights are protected. With offices in Brooklyn and Garden City, he represents juveniles throughout the New York City area, including Nassau and Suffolk counties.
My Child Was Arrested. What Next?
The first few days after your child's arrest is a critical period. The early involvement of an attorney can often lead to a favorable resolution before the case even goes to court.
Police are supposed to make an effort to contact parents following a juvenile arrest. If you are contacted, you should try to keep your child from making incriminating statements to police. A child has the same right to an attorney as an adult.
In New York, a juvenile offense is a crime committed by a child from ages seven to 16. By law, a child under seven years of age cannot form the intent to commit a crime. A child over 16 is tried in adult court. Juveniles may also be tried in adult court, depending on the seriousness of the offense.
Juvenile records are supposed to be sealed. However, if your child is found responsible for a juvenile offense, that information will be visible to court officials and could affect your child in the future.
Discuss Juvenile Offenses With Family Lawyer Andrew A. Bokser
To discuss the facts of your child's juvenile case with attorney Andrew A. Bokser at our Brooklyn or Garden City law office, call 718-834-1904 or fill out our contact form. Evening appointments are available.
