Spokane Juvenile Crime Attorney

Helping Your Child Avoid Lifelong Consequences

The Juvenile Justice System in Washington takes a different approach from adult system. Where the adult system focuses more on retribution, the primary goal of the Juvenile Justice System is rehabilitation — helping the offender correct mistakes and find a better path in life.

Even though the juvenile system takes a more rehabilitative approach, the penalties that youthful offenders can receive are not that different from penalties for adult convicts: fines, incarceration, community service and a damaged reputation.

Especially considering that we are talking about minors — children — it is important to get the best defense possible. Your child should not have his or her life take a negative trajectory that could have lifelong impact, jeopardizing educational and career choices just because of one youthful mistake like underage drinking or a petty theft crime. You need a legal team you can trust to help defend your child in the juvenile justice system.

Call (509) 652-3330 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a Spokane juvenile defense attorney from Maxey Law Office PLLC.

Juvenile Court Process in Spokane, WA

When a minor is charged with a crime in Spokane, their case will typically be handled in juvenile court. Juvenile courts operate differently from adult courts, with a focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. The goal is to provide young offenders with the tools they need to make better decisions and avoid future criminal behavior.

The juvenile court process typically includes the following steps:

• Arrest and Detention: If a juvenile is arrested, they may be detained in a juvenile detention center while awaiting trial. The court will decide whether the child should be released into the custody of a parent or guardian or held in detention.
• Arraignment: The juvenile will appear before a judge who will inform them of the charges and ask for a plea. The plea options are usually guilty, not guilty, or no contest. A Spokane juvenile crime lawyer can help the defendant and their family navigate this critical first step.
• Pre-Trial and Negotiation: If the juvenile pleads not guilty, a pre-trial hearing will be scheduled. During this time, the defense attorney will review evidence and may negotiate with the prosecution for a reduction in charges or an alternative resolution such as probation, diversion programs, or community service.
• Trial: If the case goes to trial, the juvenile will be tried before a judge, not a jury. Juvenile court judges have significant discretion in sentencing, and an experienced Spokane juvenile crime attorney can advocate on behalf of the defendant to secure the most favorable outcome.
• Sentencing: If the juvenile is found guilty, the judge will determine a sentence, which could include probation, community service, restitution, or placement in a juvenile detention center. In some cases, the court may opt for a diversion program or rehabilitation instead of detention.

Potential Consequences of Juvenile Crimes Convictions

The consequences of juvenile crimes can vary depending on the nature of the offense, the juvenile's age, and their prior criminal history. However, there are several potential legal and social consequences a juvenile may face if convicted of a crime. 

Here are some of the key potential consequences:

• Juvenile Detention: Confinement in a juvenile detention facility for more serious offenses.
• Probation: Supervised release with conditions like attending school and avoiding further crime.
• Diversion Programs: Alternatives to formal proceedings for minor offenses, such as education or counseling.
• Fines and Restitution: Juveniles may have to pay fines or compensate victims.
• Community Service: Completion of unpaid work for a non-profit or community group.
• Counseling/Therapy: Ordered counseling or therapy to address issues like anger or substance abuse.
• Educational Consequences: Suspension, expulsion, or difficulty enrolling in future programs due to a criminal record.
• Criminal Record: A juvenile conviction may affect future opportunities, but records may be sealed or expunged.
• Transfer to Adult Court: Serious offenses may lead to trial in adult court, with adult penalties.
• Loss of Driver’s License: Loss of driving privileges for offenses like DUI or reckless driving.
• Reputation and Social Stigma: Negative impact on the juvenile’s reputation, leading to social isolation.

Legal Representation You Can Trust

At Maxey Law Office PLLC we have been helping our clients in a range of criminal matters for more than 30 years. Our Spokane juvenile defense lawyers bring a wealth of experience to every juvenile case we handle — and experience is one of the most important factors in working with the juvenile justice system.