Leesburg, VA Juvenile Crimes Defense Lawyer

Attorney Helping Minors Address Juvenile Delinquency Charges in Leesburg, Virginia

When a child is accused of a crime, their entire family may be affected. In Virginia, juvenile offenses are handled by Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts, which focus on the rehabilitation of young offenders. However, the consequences of a delinquency finding can follow a minor for years, affecting their educational opportunities, employment prospects, and personal growth. In some situations, cases may be transferred to circuit courts, and minors may be tried as adults.

Whitlock Law represents minors in Virginia's juvenile court system, working to resolve these matters in ways that will help a child avoid ongoing legal difficulties. We help families navigate the complex procedures of the juvenile justice system, ensuring that minors receive the defense and support they deserve.

Juvenile Delinquency Proceedings in Virginia

In Virginia, juvenile courts have jurisdiction over minors under the age of 18 who are accused of committing delinquent acts or status offenses. The charges in these cases may range from minor infractions, such as shoplifting or curfew violations, to serious felonies like robbery, assault, or drug crimes. The procedures followed in juvenile courts differ significantly from the adult criminal justice system, with a focus on intervention, rehabilitation, and supervision rather than incarceration.

Key steps in a juvenile delinquency case include:

Intake and Detention: A child may be taken into custody if they are accused of a criminal offense. In some cases, a complaint may be issued, and an intake officer may review the case to determine whether it may be resolved informally or whether to file a petition asking a judge to issue a detention order.
Detention Hearing: A hearing must be held within 72 hours after a child is taken into custody. This hearing will review the circumstances of the case, and a judge may decide whether the child will remain in a juvenile detention facility or whether they should be released while their case is pending.
Adjudicatory Hearing: Similar to a trial, this hearing is meant to determine whether the child committed the alleged offense. A minor has the right to be represented by an attorney in this hearing. The charges against the child must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Disposition: If the judge finds that the minor committed the offense in question, they will rule that the child is delinquent. A separate hearing may be held to determine the appropriate actions to take. Options may include probation, community service, restitution, placement in a treatment program, or commitment to the Department of Juvenile Justice.

When a Juvenile May Be Tried as an Adult

Although most juvenile offenses are handled in the juvenile court system, certain serious crimes may lead to a transfer to adult court. Under Virginia law, minors as young as 14 may be tried as adults for felony offenses if the Commonwealth's Attorney seeks a transfer and the court finds it appropriate.

Circumstances that may lead to adult prosecution include:

Use of a firearm during the commission of a felony
Accusations of violent felonies such as murder, sexual assault, or armed robbery
A prior record of serious offenses or multiple delinquency findings

When a transfer is requested, the juvenile court will hold a transfer hearing to determine whether there is probable cause to charge the child with a crime and whether criminal charges in adult court would be appropriate. Whitlock Law can provide aggressive legal representation in these hearings, challenging the need for adult prosecution and presenting evidence of a child's background, maturity, and potential for rehabilitation.

How Whitlock Law Can Help Children Who Have Been Charged With Juvenile Offenses

The juvenile justice system can be confusing and frightening for children and their parents. Whitlock Law provides clear, effective legal representation designed to reduce uncertainty and help families make informed decisions at every step.

When working with young clients, we take the time to understand their personal and educational backgrounds, mental health needs, and family dynamics. This comprehensive approach helps us develop defense strategies that reflect the legal facts of the case and the broader context of the child's life.

In every case, Whitlock Law seeks to resolve matters in a way that limits the long-term impact on a child's future. Our goal is to provide a child with a path forward that supports accountability, growth, and stability.

Contact Our Leesburg Juvenile Defense Attorney

When a child has been detained by law enforcement or is involved in juvenile delinquency proceedings, early legal intervention can be critical. Whitlock Law provides compassionate representation in juvenile court proceedings, and our lawyer works closely with families to address and resolve the challenges they may face. To learn more about how to protect your child's future, contact us at 703-576-5005 and set up a free consultation.

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