Daytona Beach Juvenile Defense Attorney

Defending Juvenile Crime Cases in FL

Juveniles charged with committing a crime in Florida and their parents can benefit from the professional legal services offered by Buckmaster & Ellzey. We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and help many families with a juvenile offender. A criminal proceeding can be a frightening and intimidating experience for a juvenile, necessitating the support of a strong legal defense team.

A conviction for a crime can affect the offender for the remainder of their life. It can affect the ability to attend college or pursue certain careers involving a high level of trust or security clearance. Certain jobs with professional licenses, the armed forces, law enforcement, and other types of jobs may be unavailable to a convicted juvenile offender. 

Following an arrest, it is important to contact a Daytona Beach juvenile defense attorney before speaking with authorities. An experienced juvenile defense lawyer can advise as to the proper steps to take for the juvenile and parents that protect the rights and interests of the child.

Common Juvenile Crimes in Daytona Beach

Common juvenile crimes are as follows:

• Violent acts, sex crimes, gang-related activities
• Theft crimes, property damage, internet crimes
• Alcohol use and illegal drug crimes

Each juvenile crime is different with its own set of circumstances, making it important to have an experienced defense attorney when a juvenile is facing serious criminal charges. A juvenile does not have the rights provided to adults when involved in criminal proceedings. Juveniles are not entitled to a public proceeding or jury.

The extent of the crime and the type of crime can affect the decision of a judge at sentencing. Parents need to be involved because they may lose custody of their child to the state youth authorities and reform system. When the future of a young person is at stake, it is important to have support from the skilled and experienced attorneys from Buckmaster & Ellzey. Make an appointment today for a consultation regarding a juvenile crime.

The Florida Juvenile Justice System

Florida’s juvenile justice system prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment. Cases are handled in the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) rather than adult criminal court. A juvenile (under age 18) charged with a delinquent act—the equivalent of a crime—will receive a petition from the state attorney’s office and appear before a juvenile court judge.

Key distinctions from adult court include:

• Confidential Proceedings: Cases are typically closed to the public, preserving a young person’s privacy.
• Different Terminology: Arrest becomes “detention,” and conviction becomes “adjudication of delinquency.”
• Focus on Rehabilitation: Courts emphasize education, counseling, and community service over incarceration.

A Daytona Beach juvenile crimes defense lawyer understands how to leverage these differences to minimize the impact of charges.

Localized Insights on Juvenile Crimes in Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, known for its vibrant community and bustling beach life, is not immune to the challenges posed by juvenile crime. In this unique environment, localized factors can influence the prevalence and types of juvenile offenses, such as property crimes during peak tourist seasons or increased drug-related offenses at local events. 

Understanding these community-specific factors allows for a more tailored defense approach that considers the local context and dynamics. Having a juvenile defense lawyer in Daytona Beach who understands the local system and key players in the judicial process can make a significant difference in navigating the complexities of a juvenile defense case.

Navigating the Juvenile Court Process

Juvenile proceedings follow a structured path designed to rehabilitate. Understanding each phase helps families prepare:

1. Initial Detention Hearing (Within 24 Hours): Judge determines whether to release the minor to parents or remand them to a DJJ facility.
2. Arraignment: Formal reading of charges; attorney enters plea on the juvenile’s behalf.
3. Pretrial Conference: Discussion of evidence, potential diversion, and disposition options.
4. Adjudication Hearing: Equivalent to a trial. Judge hears evidence and decides if the juvenile committed the act.
5. Disposition Hearing: If adjudicated delinquent, judge orders appropriate sanctions—probation, community service, counseling, or placement in a residential program.

Throughout these stages, a Daytona Beach juvenile crimes defense lawyer guides families, files motions to dismiss or suppress evidence, and negotiates for diversion placements where available.

Alternatives to Detention

Florida offers several programs for eligible first-time or low-risk offenders:

• Civil Citation Program: Issued at law enforcement’s discretion for minor offenses; no formal arrest or DJJ record.
• Pre-Arrest Diversion: Law enforcement refers youth to counseling, educational classes, or community service.
• Civil Citation Protocol for Juveniles: Youth complete mandated programs and avoid a delinquency petition altogether.

These alternatives can keep adolescents out of the juvenile justice system entirely. A Daytona Beach juvenile defense lawyer advocates for diversion enrollment and works with community providers to meet program requirements.

Contact Our Daytona Beach Juvenile Crime Lawyer

When a minor is charged with a crime, it can be a confusing and overwhelming experience for both the child and their family. At Buckmaster & Ellzey, our Daytona Beach juvenile defense attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation for juvenile crime cases in Florida. We understand the unique challenges and complexities of the juvenile court system and are committed to protecting the rights and future of young individuals facing criminal charges.

Our experienced juvenile attorneys in Daytona Beach can represent juveniles facing a wide range of criminal charges in Florida, including:

• Drug offenses
• Theft and shoplifting
• Underage drinking
• Assault and battery
• Property crimes

With our experience in juvenile defense, we strive to minimize the impact of criminal charges on a minor's future, whether through negotiation, diversion programs, or aggressive courtroom advocacy. If your child is facing criminal charges, contact Buckmaster & Ellzey today for dedicated and knowledgeable legal representation.