Juvenile Delinquency Defense in Eau Claire, WI
Juvenile Delinquency Defense in Eau Claire, WI
At Cohen Law Offices, we understand that a juvenile's future can be at stake when facing criminal charges. As experienced criminal defense attorneys in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation for young individuals navigating the juvenile justice system.
Understanding Juvenile Delinquency in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, a juvenile is defined as an individual under the age of 17. All individuals who are 17 or older are charged and tried as adults. However, the state has provisions that allow for juveniles to be charged and tried as adults under certain circumstances:
- Discretionary Waivers of Juvenile Jurisdiction: Juveniles aged 15 or 16 may be transferred to adult court for serious offenses, such as homicide, sexual assault, armed robbery, or distribution of drugs if the court determines it's in the best interest of the public and the juvenile.
- Once Waived, Always Waived:
Juveniles who were previously transferred from juvenile court to adult court and have now received new charges will always be charged as adults, no matter the severity of the new charge.
- Minimum Age for Adult Charges: In Wisconsin, children as young as 10 can be charged as adults for certain serious crimes, including homicide and attempted homicide.
Possible Penalties for Juvenile Delinquency
If adjudicated delinquent, a juvenile in Wisconsin may face a range of dispositions, including:
- Formal Supervision:
Placement under the supervision of a county department or a suitable adult, with conditions such as attending school and obeying home rules.
- Community Service:
Participation in supervised work programs designed to promote rehabilitation.
- Day Treatment Programs:
Intensive in-home services, including counseling and behavior monitoring.
- Home Detention: Ordered to remain at home for up to 30 days.
- Juvenile Detention: Ordered to remain in a juvenile detention facility for up to 365 days.
- Victim-Offender Mediation:
Participation in programs if the victim agrees.
- Restitution: Reimbursement of the victim for losses based on damage to property or physical injury. Juveniles under the age of 14 may not be required to pay more than $250 in restitution.
Why Choose Cohen Law Offices?
Facing juvenile charges can be overwhelming for both the young individual and their family. At Cohen Law Offices, we offer:
- Experienced Representation:
A track record of defending juveniles in Eau Claire and surrounding areas.
- Personalized Approach: Understanding the unique circumstances of each case.
- Commitment to Rehabilitation: Advocating for dispositions that focus on the juvenile's future success.
Contact Us Today
If your child is facing juvenile delinquency charges in Eau Claire or the surrounding areas, don't navigate the system alone. Call 715-514-5051 to schedule a consultation with our experienced criminal defense attorneys. At Cohen Law Offices, we are dedicated to protecting your child's rights and future.
