Grand Rapids Juvenile Crimes Defense Attorney
Navigating the legal system after a juvenile crime charge can profoundly impact a young person’s future. Legal representation plays a pivotal role in safeguarding their rights and fostering opportunities for rehabilitation.
Brookhills Legal Services is here to defend the youth of Grand Rapids, advocating for fair treatment. We strive to minimize long-term consequences or, if possible, get charges dismissed. Our team approaches each case with dedication and compassion, working to support families during challenging times and emphasizing the value of second chances.
To schedule a free consultation with our juvenile crimes defense team, call us today at (616) 202-3988.
Understanding Juvenile Crimes in Michigan
Juvenile crimes encompass a wide range of offenses committed by individuals under the age of 18. These offenses can include theft, vandalism, trespassing, underage drinking, and possession of controlled substances.
More serious acts, such as assault or burglary, may also fall under this category. Michigan law aims to guide young individuals toward accountability and rehabilitation rather than focusing solely on punishment.
Juvenile cases differ significantly from adult criminal cases in both process and purpose. The juvenile justice system emphasizes rehabilitation over retribution. It is based on the belief that young individuals are more likely to reform their behavior.
Proceedings in juvenile court generally focus on the child’s background, family, and environment, considering factors that influence their actions. Additionally, terminology diverges from adult cases, with terms such as “adjudication” used in place of “conviction” and “disposition” replacing “sentencing.”
While adult criminal records often carry long-term consequences, juvenile records may remain confidential, offering young people a chance to move forward without obstacles tied to past mistakes.
Navigating the Juvenile Justice System
The juvenile justice process in Michigan involves several distinct stages. The process often begins with an investigation and referral, where law enforcement or school officials report an incident.
If the matter proceeds, the court schedules a preliminary hearing to determine how the case will be handled. Unlike adult criminal courts, juvenile cases prioritize hearings that focus on rehabilitation and assessing the circumstances surrounding a minor’s actions.
During adjudication, the court examines evidence to determine whether the minor is responsible for the alleged behavior. The proceedings involve discussions centered on the child’s welfare, personal history, and potential influences from their environment.
Sentencing, referred to as disposition within juvenile courts, can include a range of outcomes, such as community service, counseling programs, probation, or, in some cases, placement in a youth development facility. Sentencing guidelines in Michigan reflect a commitment to fostering both accountability and growth while minimizing overly punitive measures.
Our team provides guidance throughout this intricate process. With a focus on fairness, we work to advocate for equitable outcomes tailored to each minor’s circumstances. By addressing the unique aspects of juvenile cases and emphasizing rehabilitation, we strive to empower families.
Protecting Your Child’s Future
A juvenile crime record can create challenges that impact a child’s long-term opportunities. Colleges, employers, and even volunteer programs may conduct background checks, which can reveal a history of past offenses.
This disclosure may affect admittance into educational institutions or eligibility for certain positions. The presence of a juvenile record can also influence perceptions, potentially limiting a young person’s ability to access scholarships, internships, or other career-building opportunities.
Our team works to reduce the lasting effects of juvenile offenses on a child’s future. By focusing on mitigating the consequences, we aim to preserve access to educational programs and career paths. We approach each situation with strategies tailored to the facts of the case, and we advocate for outcomes that prioritize growth and opportunity.
If your child is facing criminal allegations in Grand Rapids or the surrounding areas, contact our juvenile defense team online for a free consultation.
Client Testimonials
See What People Are Saying
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I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of their phenomenal services!- Hannah C.
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Wayne and his staff turned an otherwise painful situation into a quick and easy process. Thorough and professional. Thanks Wayne!- Timothy Stamm
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Great lawyers the best I have ever seen. This place has the best people who are extremely nice and happy people. And the price is set at such a fair and great price.- Michael K.
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My case involves child custody and child support. I moved out of state with my kids and was served by my husband with child custody paper stating he wants full custody of the kids. I was so worried, I went online and googled law firm that deal with child custody and came across Wayne F Crowe Jr. after reading some of the reviews I decided to contact the law firm and I am glad that I did because everything works out excellent. Wayne help me won the child custody case which was a difficult one because it's a move of state with the kids without the other party written consent but Wayne keep on telling me that we were going to win and we did.He made it look so easy. Thank you Wayne. Lee was my Child support lawyer and he help me get the Child Support that was more that reasonable for my two kids with only few court appearances. Thank you Lee. I recommend this law firm to anyone who want lawyers that are knowledgeable and will put in the work to win your case.- Charlesa
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She was amazing, knowledgeable, and compassionate I look forward to her representing all upcoming cases. Bolinda was awesome.- Colin
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This law firm is the best. Mr.Phillp Jones is one of the best attorneys. I would recommend him to any one. He got me through a rough time were I thought there was no way out. I think him for a job well done.- Colin
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They fight for whats best for you, family is their most importan mater. Michael King help me with my divorce when I was feeling hopeless about my case. He stud up for my daughter's safety and my rights I would go to them in a heart beat if ever needed help again. I just can't thank them enough Michael, Jackelyn, and hennessey they are all exelent people.- Veronica G. Herrera
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I want to thank everyone at the law firm for there help with my case. Jordan was wonderful in helping me settle the case i had. She kept me informed every step of the way and explained everything in a manner that made it easy for me to understand everything going with the case. I would recommend her and this law firm to anyone who needs a great lawyer.- Bloom English
