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How Can a Minor Be Punished for a Juvenile Crime Conviction?

California has two distinct criminal justice systems. One is reserved for adults 18 or over, and the other system is for minors or juveniles. Nearly any crime committed by someone who is not yet 18 years of age will count as a juvenile crime.

As juvenile crimes are processed uniquely, they are often met with unique penalties. In many ways, a juvenile who is convicted of a crime ends up being affected by criminal penalties far more than an adult, mainly due to the fact that a minor has their “whole life ahead of them.”

Penalties that can be utilized in juvenile crimes case include:

  • Electronic monitoring: A popular conviction penalty for juveniles is electronic monitoring. Usually an electronic anklet will be affixed to the minor’s ankle, and it cannot be legally removed without the court’s approval. The anklet transmits the juvenile’s whereabouts at all times. Electronic monitoring is often used for juveniles who were convicted of a property crime, or who are suspected to be affiliated with criminal gangs in certain neighborhoods.
  • Juvenile detention facility: Many juveniles convicted of misdemeanors or nonviolent felonies can be sentenced to a juvenile facility that incorporates work-related duties. Commonly, minors are required to assist with ranch or agricultural work. Some detention facilities are similar to a boot camp, focusing on strenuous exercise and harsh discipline.
  • Probation: Some minors may be sentenced to lengthy probation that includes regular meetings with probation officers. Although probation is propositioned as a lenient juvenile penalty, it can interrupt schooling and social life to the extent that it damages the minor’s wellbeing.

Being convicted of a juvenile crime is so devastating because educational institutions will be likely to stay away from teenagers and minors with a criminal record. A single conviction can make it difficult for your child to complete regular schooling, and even more challenging to be accepted into a college or university. Employers will also stray from any application filed by a juvenile who has been convicted.

Juvenile Crimes Defense Lawyer in Santa Rosa

If your child has been accused of a juvenile crime, you need to start thinking about how to challenge the charges and protect their future. The Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig, P.C. and our Santa Rosa juvenile crime attorney is here to help shut down the prosecution so you and your child never need to worry about sentencing requirements at all. Throughout our years of practice, we have successfully represented thousands of clients in all sorts of criminal cases. Call (707) 418-5352 to learn more about our firm and your legal options during a free consultation.

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