Don't let actions taken as a juvenile impact your child's life in the long term. Reach out to the experienced juvenile attorneys at O'Mara Law Group in Orlando today.
How Does the Juvenile Justice System Work in Florida?
The criminal justice system for juveniles in Florida differs from that for adults. Designed to prioritize rehabilitation over punishment, it aims to help young offenders reform and reintegrate into society. Nevertheless, the system can impose harsh penalties for serious offenses. The state’s direct file law, found in the Florida Statutes Section 985.557, allows a child as young as 14 to be tried as an adult under certain circumstances—at the discretion of the state attorney. This may be the case in serious crimes, such as arson, sexual battery, robbery, kidnapping, aggravated child abuse, aggravated assault, manslaughter, or murder.
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The Mark O’Mara Law Firm was a wonderful place and outstanding. Mark was very helpful and always made time for me, answering all my questions. But my hero was Susan Staggs, who prepared all of my paperwork. She is a real magician who takes it seriously.
What Should You Expect When a Juvenile Is Arrested?
The juvenile justice system in Florida is intimidating for a young person accused of a criminal act. The process follows these stages:
- Intake: An arrested minor is taken to a juvenile assessment center for screening.
- Detention hearing: If the offense is serious, the child may be detained pending a hearing within 24 hours to determine if the child should remain in custody.
- Adjudicatory hearing: Equivalent to a trial in adult court, this hearing involves the presentation of evidence, witnesses, and arguments.
- Disposition: If found delinquent, the juvenile receives a disposition similar to sentencing, which may include probation, community service, counseling, or placement in a juvenile detention facility.
What Are the Legal Defenses Against Juvenile Charges?
Our juvenile defense lawyers in Orlando consider all possible defenses and factors, developing strategies based on the defendant’s age and the unique elements of the case. The following are some common defenses against juvenile charges:
Challenging the Evidence
Many juvenile cases rely on forensic evidence, witness statements, and surveillance footage. We thoroughly examine all evidence to identify weaknesses or violations in its collection and handling.
Arguing Mitigating Circumstances
We work to show the court any factors that may have influenced the child’s actions, such as family issues, peer pressure, or emotional challenges. This may encourage the court to focus on rehabilitation.
Pushing Diversion Programs
Florida offers several diversion programs designed to keep minors out of detention and reduce recidivism. We advocate for these programs whenever possible, as they allow juveniles to avoid a permanent criminal record.
Preventing Adult Prosecution
Our seasoned criminal defense attorneys vigorously defend against cases where the state seeks to charge a minor as an adult, emphasizing the negative impact on a young person’s life and the potential for rehabilitation within the juvenile system.
Juvenile crimes can have severe consequences in Florida. Contact O’Mara Law Group for skilled and personalized juvenile defense to protect your child’s future. Our founding attorney, Mark O’Mara, is board-certified in criminal trial law, one of only a small percentage of the criminal attorneys representing juveniles in Florida. After winning the controversial George Zimmerman case, Mr. O’Mara was asked to serve as an on-air legal expert for CNN and Court TV. He and his team of criminal attorneys are exceptionally dedicated to protecting the rights of young people caught in the criminal justice system statewide.
