Protecting Juveniles Charged with Crimes
Juvenile Crime Defense in St. Petersburg, Florida
The juvenile justice system is geared toward rehabilitation rather than punishment. But that doesn't guarantee that your son or daughter will be treated fairly. Our experienced juvenile law attorneys work to soften the consequences and limit the impact on your child's future.
If your child is charged with a criminal offense in Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County or Manatee County, contact the Law Offices of Timothy Hessinger at (727) 896-1501. We offer a free consultation to explain the charges and likely outcomes, including diversion programs.
Juvenile Crimes
There aren't really "juvenile crimes," other than underage consumption of alcohol. Teenagers are charged under the same Florida statutes that adults are. We have defended juveniles on charges from petty offenses to serious violent felonies, but the most common juvenile court offenses are:
- Drug possession
- Theft and burglary
- Underage drinking and DUI
- Battery/assault
- Sexual offenses
Juvenile Court
The crimes are the same, but the rules, the rights and the punishments are different in the juvenile justice system. There are many diversion programs for juvenile crimes to help youths get their lives on track while still being held accountable for their actions. We work hard to limit the impact on current schooling, college entrance and future employment. Your child needs an attorney who can intervene with prosecutors on the front end of the case, defend them against untrue accusations and negotiate for fair and reasonable sentences that avoid a criminal record.
Is Your Child Accused of a Major Felony?
For almost all types of offenses the prosecutor has discretion to charge any child over age 16 as an adult. We fight to keep your son or daughter in juvenile court if at all possible.
If your child is charged as an adult, he or she couldn't be in better hands. Tim Hessinger and Donald Kilfin will use there 28 years of criminal law experience to obtain the best possible results. All avenues of defense will be explored including a Youthful Offender departure sentence and sentencing back to juvenile court.
Find Out Where Your Child Stands
Contact us today for a free initial consultation to discuss the charges and what it might mean. You can e-mail us or call us 24 hours a day at (727) 896-1501.
