Los Angeles Juvenile Crimes Attorney

Juvenile crimes in Los Angeles present unique legal challenges that can significantly impact a child's future. At Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc., we understand the devastating effects of juvenile charges on families, education, and future employment. With juvenile offenses becoming increasingly severe in the eyes of the law, securing an experienced juvenile defense attorney is crucial to protecting your child's rights, freedom, and future.

In California, juvenile courts have jurisdiction over minors aged 10 to 17. Unlike adult criminal courts, juvenile courts emphasize rehabilitation and education over punishment. However, this does not imply leniency; a juvenile conviction can have severe consequences, including probation, placement in probation camps, juvenile detention centers, or even trials as adults for serious crimes.

A juvenile conviction can lead to long-term, life-altering repercussions such as:

• Loss of Driver’s License: Even minor offenses like drug possession or alcohol-related charges can result in a suspended or revoked license.
• Educational Setbacks: Schools and universities may deny admission, revoke scholarships, or refuse financial aid due to juvenile criminal records.
• Employment Difficulties: Many employers perform background checks and may refuse employment based on juvenile offenses.
• Housing Restrictions: Families can be evicted from public housing or struggle to find housing due to a child’s criminal history.

At Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc., we proactively address these issues by building a robust defense that aims to prevent charges from becoming convictions.

Juvenile offenses can range from minor misdemeanors to severe felonies. Common juvenile charges include:

• Robbery (Penal Code 211)
• Theft and Shoplifting (Penal Code 459, 484)
• DUI (Vehicle Code 23152(a), 23152(b))
• Assault and Battery (Penal Codes 242, 243, 245)
• Drug Possession and Distribution (Health & Safety Code 11350, 11352)
• Vandalism and Graffiti (Penal Code 594)
• Sexual Assault and Related Sex Crimes (Penal Codes 243.4, 261)
• Gang-related crimes (Penal Code 186.22)
• Weapon Possession (Penal Code 12022)
• Arson (Penal Code 451)
• Homicide (Penal Code 187)

Each crime requires an individualized defense strategy. Attorney Michael Kraut personally assesses each juvenile case to craft the strongest possible defense.

In severe cases, California prosecutors may seek to try juveniles as adults. Factors influencing this decision include:

• Nature and Severity of the Crime: Violent crimes such as murder or armed robbery typically prompt adult charges.
• Juvenile’s Age and Criminal History: Older juveniles with extensive records face a higher risk of adult prosecution.
• Potential for Rehabilitation: Courts evaluate whether rehabilitation efforts can effectively address juvenile delinquency.

A juvenile tried as an adult faces harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences served in adult facilities. Our goal at Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. is to aggressively advocate for keeping your child’s case in the juvenile system, where rehabilitative resources and alternative sentencing options are more readily available.

If your child has been arrested or is under investigation, immediate action can dramatically affect case outcomes:

• Do Not Delay Legal Representation. Police, prosecutors, or juvenile intake officers can dismiss juvenile cases early. Rapid intervention from a seasoned juvenile attorney significantly increases the likelihood of favorable outcomes.
• Avoid Self-Incrimination: Juveniles have rights against self-incrimination. Ensure your child exercises their right to remain silent and speaks only in the presence of a defense attorney.
• Gather Evidence and Witnesses Promptly: Early evidence collection can support a strong defense or dismissal.

Michael Kraut, a respected Los Angeles juvenile crimes attorney, brings extensive experience as a prosecutor, offering invaluable insights into prosecution strategies. The Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. approaches juvenile cases with a dual strategy: aggressively challenging charges while emphasizing rehabilitation and education over incarceration.

Our comprehensive services include:

• Case Evaluation and Investigation: Thoroughly investigate circumstances, analyze police reports, interview witnesses, and review available evidence.
• Negotiations with Prosecutors: Pursuing alternatives to formal charges, such as diversion programs, probation, counseling, and community service.
• Litigation and Defense Strategy: Aggressively defend your child in court, present mitigating evidence, and advocate for rehabilitation-focused resolutions.
• Post-Conviction Support: Assisting with sealing juvenile records, minimizing long-term impacts on employment, education, and housing.

California’s juvenile justice system focuses significantly on rehabilitating minors to become productive citizens. Attorney Michael Kraut strongly believes that most juveniles benefit more from educational and rehabilitative interventions rather than incarceration. Our goal is always to persuade the courts to adopt rehabilitative options such as:

• Counseling programs
• Community service
• Educational workshops
• Substance abuse programs
• Restorative justice initiatives

Juvenile records can often be sealed or expunged, helping your child avoid lifelong stigma. Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. guides families through this process, ensuring records remain confidential and inaccessible during future employment and educational background checks.

• Proven Experience: Michael Kraut’s background as a former prosecutor provides critical insights, giving clients a strategic advantage.
• Personalized Attention: We treat each juvenile case individually, crafting defenses that are aligned with each family’s unique circumstances.
• Client-focused Approach: Understanding the emotional stress juvenile charges create, our firm prioritizes compassionate support and clear communication throughout the legal process.

Facing juvenile charges is challenging, but you do not have to navigate this difficult time alone. Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. stands ready to defend your child's future with aggressive representation and compassionate counsel.

Contact us immediately if your child has been arrested, charged, or is under investigation for a juvenile crime. Every moment counts when protecting your child's future.