To learn more about juvenile crimes in Texas, reach out to our dedicated Houston juvenile defense attorneys today. Our legal team will analyze the facts of your case and your options. Give us a call today to obtain the competent legal representation you and your child need.
What are some common juvenile crimes?
1. Possession of alcohol by a minor
Individuals between the ages of 12 and 20 account for 11% of all the alcohol consumed in the United States, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The drug is so widely used that it’s easy to ignore laws governing who can use the substance.
A typical crime committed by juveniles is the possession of alcohol by a minor. According to Section 106.05 of the Texas Penal Code, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to have alcohol in their possession. There are cases, however, where someone under 21 can legally be in possession of the substance. These instances can include the following:
- For employment purposes
- In the presence of a parent, guardian, or spouse
- For the purpose of certain coursework
- If you are over 18 and are charged with the crime, your case will be heard in adult court, but if you are younger than 17, your case will likely be heard in juvenile court.
2. Criminal mischief
It’s normal for children to get into trouble, but when they cause damage to another’s property, it becomes a crime. Causing damage to another’s property is considered criminal mischief, but the penal code views other acts to be criminal mischief too.
Criminal mischief can be committed in the following ways according to section 28.03 of the Texas Penal Code:
- Damaging or destroying another’s property
- Meddling with a property that causes monetary loss or an inconvenience to the owner or third party
- Making marking, inscriptions, slogans, drawings, or paintings on another’s property.
- Since the crime involves damaging property, the juvenile court will likely need the minor to compensate the owner for the damages they generated.
If your child has been charged with any of the above or other criminal offenses, it is in your best interest to reach out to our firm today to obtain the legal representation you need to protect your child and his or her future. Give us a call today to get started.
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