How Juvenile Court Works
Juvenile Court in Florida handles cases involving criminal felonies and misdemeanors for defendants younger than 19. Juvenile court deals with all kinds of offenses juveniles commit, ranging from traffic violations to violent crimes. In recent years, the juvenile justice system, designed for minors, has increased its focus on rehabilitation and guidance rather than strict punishment.
However, if a grand jury indicts a juvenile in Florida, he or she is charged as an adult. This means that the proceedings, rulings, and sentencing completely differ from what you might expect in juvenile court.
Given the potential consequences of juvenile court proceedings, it is important to have access to the services of a good Miami juvenile crimes lawyer to represent you or your loved one.
Process of Juvenile Justice
The process of juvenile justice is a lot different than the adult criminal justice system. Here is how the process generally works:
Juveniles Are Taken Into Custody
When a juvenile is taken into custody and charged with a crime, a detention hearing is held shortly afterward (usually within a day or two) to determine whether the young person should remain in detention or be released into parental custody while the case progresses. This decision depends on the seriousness of the offense committed.
Juveniles may be placed in a Juvenile Assessment Center, or JAC, if they are deemed a risk to themselves or others. This early review helps ensure that detention is only used when necessary for the safety of the juvenile or the community.
Charges Are Filed
After a juvenile is taken into custody, the State’s Attorney’s office thoroughly reviews the case. They examine the available evidence and consider the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine if there is enough to support formal charges.
The appropriate charges are filed once the review is complete, setting the stage for the upcoming hearings. This careful process ensures that every detail is considered and that the case proceeds with a clear understanding of the allegations.
Initial Hearing
The court takes an early look at the case at the initial hearing, which usually takes place within a day or two of the juvenile’s detention or release to parental custody. During this hearing, the juvenile is asked to enter a plea, and the juvenile court judge explains the next steps in the process.
The court may also address whether the young person will need a public defender or if they can work with a private attorney. This hearing is an opportunity for the court to assess the situation and determine how best to move forward in a way that supports the juvenile’s rehabilitation.
A criminal defense lawyer who works with juvenile offenders knows that this can be a very stressful time for the young person and their family, so compassionate legal representation is important to ensure that their rights and best interests are protected from the very beginning.
Juvenile Court
Unlike in adult court, juvenile cases are non-jury cases, which means the juvenile court judge solely decides the outcome. Depending on the nature of the offense, it is possible to have lenient sentencing in some cases. The main purpose of juvenile courts is to effectively order and implement changes that will positively impact the juvenile instead of detention.
The sentencing hearing takes place after a judge has determined a young person is guilty, either through a plea agreement or following a trial. During this hearing, the judge reviews the case details, considers any mitigating factors, and decides on an appropriate sentence. The nature of sentencing if the juvenile is found guilty may include:
- Probation until the age of 19;
- Probation with remedial classes or community services;
- Incarceration until the 19th birthday in a juvenile facility.
Typically, the sentencing hearing occurs soon after the initial proceedings once all the necessary evidence and recommendations, such as those from probation officers or social workers, are available.
Transfer to Adult Criminal Court
As mentioned above, under special circumstances, juveniles indicted by a grand jury in Florida may be charged as adults and transferred to adult court, a process that can be confusing and overwhelming for families. This usually happens when the offense is very serious, such as a violent crime, or when the young person has a history of previous offenses.
For example, if a teenager is involved in a violent juvenile crime that leads to severe injuries, prosecutors might seek to charge them as an adult because of the seriousness of the situation. In other cases, prior run-ins with the law can influence this decision even if the crime seems less severe.
The goal behind transferring a case to the adult system is to ensure that the punishment fits the gravity of the crime. However, it also means the legal process, sentencing, and potential penalties become much harsher.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Understanding complex legal requirements and being present for multiple proceedings before the case even begins is not possible without the help of a criminal attorney in Miami. In addition to doing all the legwork, our criminal lawyer in Miami will also be able to use multiple resources, including private investigators, to better understand the case. Any new evidence or testimony we uncover could help tilt the odds in your favor and result in a positive outcome for the case.
If you or your family face this possibility, it’s important to consult an experienced attorney familiar with your juvenile court jurisdiction who can explain your options and help protect your rights during this challenging time.
Who Is Involved in the Juvenile Court Process
When a juvenile case enters the court system, several key individuals work together to guide the young person through the process while protecting their rights. At the heart of the process is the juvenile court judge, who oversees the proceedings, listens to the evidence, and decides what is best for the juvenile’s future. The judge’s goal is to address the offense and focus on rehabilitation and support.
Alongside the judge, the State’s Attorney (or prosecutor) presents the case on behalf of the state, outlining the charges and the evidence. Balancing this role is the defense lawyer, whose job is to ensure that the young person is treated fairly and has a chance to explain their side of the story. A public defender may be appointed if the family cannot afford a private lawyer.
Other professionals, such as probation officers, social workers, or child advocates, may also be involved. Probation officers help monitor the juvenile’s progress if probation is part of the sentencing, while social workers or child advocates ensure that the young person’s well-being is a central focus during the process.
Together, these individuals work as a team to navigate the complexities of the juvenile court system, providing guidance and support aimed at helping the young person learn from their mistakes and move toward a more positive future.
Juvenile Probation Process
For many young people, probation is designed to be a second chance—a way to stay on track while receiving the support and guidance they need. Rather than being immediately removed from their familiar surroundings, probation allows the juvenile to remain in the community under specific conditions.
Depending on the juvenile probation department and what the judge determines is appropriate, these conditions might include attending remedial classes, participating in community service, or engaging in counseling sessions. The goal is to help young people learn from their mistakes and develop the skills necessary to lead a more positive life.
Juvenile probation officers play a key role in this process. They are responsible for monitoring the juvenile’s progress, ensuring that the terms of probation are met, and providing guidance along the way. This support includes regular check-ins, assistance with accessing educational or counseling resources, and serving as a consistent point of contact for both the young person and their family.
The probation officer’s role is to enforce the conditions set by the court and help the juvenile overcome challenges, thereby paving the way for a successful transition back into everyday life.
Alternative Sentencing and Rehabilitation Options
For many young people, the goal of the justice system is not just to punish, but to help them learn from their mistakes and build a better future. Alternative sentencing options address the behavior without resorting to long-term detention. These options include community service programs, remedial classes, or mental health counseling.
- Community Service Programs: These allow young people to give back to their community while learning responsibility and accountability.
- Remedial Classes and Educational Programs: Such programs can help address gaps in education or behavior, ensuring that the young person gets a fresh start academically and socially.
- Mental Health Services: Underlying emotional or behavioral issues often contribute to a young person’s actions. Counseling or therapy can help address these issues, making them less likely to repeat the same mistakes.
By focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment alone, these alternatives aim to guide young individuals toward positive change and help them build a more stable and hopeful future.
Impact of Social Media and Digital Evidence
In today’s digital age, social media and digital communications play a significant role in many juvenile cases. What young people post online—even if it was meant to be private—can sometimes be used as evidence in court. For instance, a text message, a social media post, or even a shared photo might be taken out of context and used against a young person in legal proceedings. This can add an extra layer of stress for families trying to navigate the justice system.
At the same time, digital evidence isn’t always negative. It can also help provide context or support a defense if it shows that the situation isn’t as clear-cut as it may appear at first glance. The key is understanding that every digital footprint matters. Parents and young people are encouraged to use social media carefully and be mindful of how online behavior can impact legal outcomes.
Having a knowledgeable attorney can make a significant difference. They can help review digital evidence, challenge its interpretation if needed, and ensure that any online content is understood in the full context of the case. This modern aspect of the law highlights the importance of seeking legal guidance early on to protect the rights and futures of young people.
Contact Stroleny Law for Help with the Juvenile Justice Process
You don’t have to face this challenging time alone if you or a loved one has been arrested for a juvenile offense. At Stroleny Law, we understand the emotional toll that navigating the juvenile justice system can take on families and young people. With a deep commitment to compassionate representation, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Criminal defense attorney Julian Stroleny, Esq. brings unique insight to your case, having served as a juvenile crimes prosecutor for the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office. His experience and dedication ensure that your rights are vigorously protected. Whether you’re concerned about the impact of a juvenile record or the possibility of being charged as an adult, we’re ready to guide you through the process.
Reach out today for a free consultation. Our conveniently located downtown Miami office at 1 NE 2nd Avenue, Suite 200, Miami, Florida 33132, is here to help you and your family find a path toward a brighter future. Call 305-615-1285 or contact us online to get started.
