Juvenile Delinquency

Yes, in defined circumstances. A.R.S. § 13-501(A) requires the county attorney to bring a juvenile aged fifteen, sixteen, or seventeen into adult court for first degree murder, second degree murder, forcible sexual assault, armed robbery, any other violent felony offense, any felony by a chronic felony offender, and offenses properly joined to those. Subsection (B) makes adult prosecution discretionary for a juvenile at least fourteen years old accused of a class 1 or class 2 felony, certain class 3 felonies, class 3 through 6 dangerous felonies, or any felony by a chronic felony offender.

For the mandatory category in § 13-501(A), the statute itself controls. For the discretionary category in § 13-501(B), the charging decision belongs to the county attorney, but under A.R.S. § 13-504 the court must hold a hearing, on the juvenile’s motion or its own, on whether to transfer the case to juvenile court. That charging decision is one of the most consequential moments in a juvenile case, and it happens early, which is why counsel should be involved before charges are finalized rather than after.

Juvenile court dispositions are oriented toward supervision and services rather than punishment alone, and can include probation, counseling and treatment conditions, community restitution, restitution to a victim, and in serious cases commitment to the Department of Juvenile Corrections. Diversion is also available in appropriate cases. What is realistic depends on the offense, the child’s history, and the specific court.

Not necessarily, but it does not vanish on its own. A.R.S. § 8-349 allows a person to apply to have juvenile records destroyed. The standard path opens at age eighteen for a person whose adjudication was not for an offense listed in § 13-501(A) or (B) or in title 28, chapter 4. An alternative path opens at age twenty-five for those who do not qualify under the first. Filing matters: nothing happens automatically.

Even where an admission is the likely outcome, what the child admits to, and on what terms, drives everything that follows, the disposition, the conditions imposed, whether the case can later be destroyed under § 8-349, and whether an adult-court referral is on the table under § 13-501. Those consequences are worth understanding before anything is said on the record.

Get advice before that conversation happens. A juvenile has the same right to remain silent and the same right to counsel as an adult, and statements made in an interview room are routinely the strongest evidence in the case. Nova Law Group offers a free, confidential consultation, and it costs nothing to find out where your family stands before making that decision.

At Nova Law Group, we understand the unique challenges and emotions involved when a child is facing juvenile delinquency charges. Our experienced juvenile defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting your child’s rights, future, and well-being throughout the legal process.

Experience in Juvenile Defense:

The Arizona Juvenile Delinquency Defense Attorneys have extensive experience juvenile delinquency cases, including prior experience in Juvenile Prosecution. We are skilled in handling a wide range of charges, from minor offenses to serious felonies, and have a years of experience trying these cases in Maricopa County courts.

Child-Centered Approach:

We recognize that juveniles are not just small adults, they require a different legal strategy that considers their age, developmental stage, and potential for rehabilitation. Our approach is tailored to the unique needs of young clients, focusing on protecting their future and guiding them toward positive outcomes.

Aggressive Defense:

We are committed to fighting for the best possible result for your child. Whether it’s negotiating with prosecutors, challenging evidence, or advocating for alternatives to detention, we work tirelessly to defend your child’s rights.

Clear Communication:

We know that this is a stressful time for families. We keep you fully informed throughout the process, explaining each step in clear terms and ensuring you understand your options and the potential outcomes.

Focus on Rehabilitation:

Our goal is not only to defend against the charges but also to help your child get back on track. We work with families to explore rehabilitation programs, counseling, and other resources that can support your child’s growth and development.

Compassionate Support:

We provide more than just legal representation, we offer compassionate support to your child and your family. We understand the emotional toll this situation takes and are here to help you navigate it with care and understanding.

Protecting Your Child’s Future:

We are dedicated to minimizing the impact of juvenile charges on your child’s future. Whether through preventing the case from being transferred to adult court or negotiating alternative resolutions, we strive to protect your child’s opportunities for education, employment, and a successful life.

Comprehensive Legal Strategy:

Each case is unique, and we develop a tailored legal strategy based on the specific circumstances of your child’s situation. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome while minimizing the long-term effects on your child’s life.

If your child, family member, or friend is facing juvenile delinquency charges, don’t leave their future to chance. Trust the experienced attorneys at Nova Law Group to provide the aggressive, compassionate, and effective defense your child deserves. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation, and let us help you protect your child’s future.

Related pages: diversion programs explains the options that can keep a case from ending in a conviction, and record sealing and set-asides explains what can be done about the record afterward. If the allegation involves a sexual offense, see sex crimes defense.