Juvenile Charges
Protecting young people's futures with compassionate representation.
When a young person faces criminal charges, the consequences can impact their entire future. We provide compassionate yet effective representation for juvenile cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the juvenile system different from adult court in Texas?
Juvenile cases (ages 10–16) are civil "delinquent conduct" proceedings focused on rehabilitation, heard in juvenile court with different rules — detention hearings within 48 hours, no bail schedule, and dispositions aimed at treatment and supervision rather than punishment.
Will my child's juvenile record follow them forever?
Usually not — juvenile records are confidential and many can be sealed, some automatically at 19 if conditions are met. But certain findings (felonies, sex offenses) carry forward, which is why the disposition itself matters enormously.
Can a juvenile be tried as an adult in Texas?
Yes — for serious felonies at ages 14+ the State can seek certification (discretionary transfer) to adult court, where adult prison ranges apply. Fighting certification is often the single most important battle in a serious juvenile case.
What should we do when police want to question our child?
Politely decline until a lawyer is present. Juveniles have the right to remain silent, and Texas requires specific magistrate warnings for a juvenile statement to be admissible — but kids waive rights easily under pressure. Call us before any interview.
What happens at a juvenile detention hearing?
Within about 48 hours of detention, a judge decides whether your child stays in custody or goes home under conditions. Parents' presence, a stable release plan, and counsel arguing the statutory factors make the difference between home and weeks in detention.