Children make mistakes- it is a natural part of growing and learning. But, some of these mistakes can have serious consequences. Juvenile crimes can have a major impact on a child’s future. Read on to learn more about juvenile crimes in Texas.
What is the Process?
The process you will face when charged with a juvenile crime includes:
- Detention hearing: If a juvenile is not released to their parents after being detained, a judge or magistrate will determine if they should be released or held in detention.
- Transfer hearing: Depending on the charges, prosecutors may ask the juvenile court to transfer the case to adult court. Having a juvenile case transferred to adult court depends on the crime committed and the minor’s age.
- Adjudication hearing: This hearing is similar to a trial in the criminal court process. If a juvenile does not plead guilty, they will be tried for the charges against them.
- Disposition hearing: This is similar to a sentencing hearing. When a juvenile pleads guilty or the court finds them guilty, a punishment will be determined in a disposition hearing.
- Appeal: Just like adults, juveniles have the right to appeal the court’s decision
Juvenile Crime Punishments
If you are charged with a juvenile crime in Texas, you may face the following penalties:
- Probation: A juvenile will live at home while on probation, but they will be required to follow strict guidelines. Some of these guidelines can include reporting to a probation officer, attend counseling, pay restitution, attend school, and abide by curfews.
- Detention: A juvenile can be sentenced up to nine months in the Harris County Juvenile Detention Center.
- Texas Juvenile Justice Department Detention (TJJD): Minors found guilty of numerous serious offenses may be sent to TJJD. The court can set an indeterminate or determinate sentence. An indeterminate sentence can range from nine months to two years while a determinate sentence can last for decades and result in a transfer to an adult facility or parole.
- Drug Court: For a case to be moved to drug court it needs to involve a drug or alcohol offense. Punishment can include drug and alcohol education and treatment instead of probation or detention.
If you or a loved one is facing charges for a juvenile crime in Texas, contact our firm today. We will advocate for you.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED HOUSTON FIRM
We understand how challenging various legal matters can be, which is why we have dedicated ourselves to helping clients in Texas through a wide array of legal matters, including personal injury law and criminal defense. If you have sustained a serious injury or are facing criminal charges, contact the Gonzalez Law Group today to learn more about how we can help you through every step of the legal process ahead.
