Juvenile Crime Attorneys in Colorado
Criminal allegations against your child can have devastating consequences, both now and in the future. As a parent, your instinct is to protect them. At Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C., we’ll advocate for you and your family, providing strong, compassionate legal support during one of the most difficult times in your lives.
Contact UsIs Your Child Facing Criminal Charges in Colorado? Get Legal Help Now
If your child is facing a juvenile offense, it’s essential to act quickly and get immediate help from a lawyer. Criminal allegations and adjudication can have a lasting impact on your child's future by affecting their education, employment opportunities, and community reputation.
Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. provides leading juvenile defense services in the Denver, Broomfield, Longmont, and Loveland areas.
What is Juvenile Delinquency?
Juvenile delinquency is a broad area of law that applies to children under the age of 18. As the U.S. Justice Department explains, “‘juvenile delinquency’ is the violation of a law of the United States committed by a person prior to his eighteenth birthday which would have been a crime if committed by an adult.”
In Colorado, minors are prosecuted in a juvenile justice system that is completely separate from the adult system.
What Does Adjudicated Delinquent Mean?
Being adjudicated delinquent means that a minor in Colorado was found responsible for committing a crime in juvenile court. This is different from a normal criminal conviction for adults.
Felonies & Misdemeanors for Juvenile Delinquents
When a juvenile commits an act that constitutes a felony or misdemeanor in Colorado, it is referred to as a “delinquency offense.” While the law governing what constitutes a felony and a misdemeanor is similar for both adults and juveniles, they diverge greatly in how court hearings and punishments work.
Common Juvenile Cases for Our Legal Team
Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. is experienced working with a wide range of juvenile cases. Common offenses we deal with include, but aren’t limited to:
- Underage drinking (MIP - minor in possession)
- Shoplifting
- Drug possession
- Assault
- Trespassing
No matter the alleged crime, we will help your family navigate the legal process with care and expertise.
Contact UsWhat Types of Penalties Do Juvenile Delinquents Face in Colorado?
Depending on the severity of the charges and their age, juvenile delinquents in Colorado can face an array of penalties:
- Probation
- Restitution
- Detention of up to 45 days
- Commitment to CO Dept of Human Services
- Placement in community accountability program
How Does the Juvenile System Differ from the Adult System?
In Colorado, the juvenile system has a different primary aim than the adult system. While adult charges are focused on punishment, the juvenile system aims to help the child by supporting their rehabilitation.
When a juvenile case goes to court in Colorado, the case is handled separately. Most juvenile cases move through the court system in just weeks, compared to months and years seen in the adult criminal system.
Due to their unique nature, juvenile cases must be handled with extreme care by a skilled juvenile defense lawyer who knows the Colorado system.
How Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. Can Help With Your Juvenile Case
The team of seasoned lawyers at Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. has handled thousands of Colorado juvenile cases. Guided by hard-won experience, we assess and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of every case we work.
After developing a strategic plan, our team navigates the legal process as quickly as possible, while keeping your child’s future our top priority every step of the way.
Contact UsHire Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. to Protect Your Child's Future
With over 30 years of experience behind us, we are confident in our abilities to assist with your juvenile delinquency case. We understand the importance of protecting your child’s future and will take every step to ensure a favorable outcome.
Our team of criminal defense lawyers is standing by to answer any questions you may have about juvenile crimes.
Contact UsFAQs
What is considered juvenile delinquency in Colorado?
Juvenile delinquency refers to acts committed by children that would be crimes if they were adults.
How is the juvenile court system different from the adult court system in Colorado?
The juvenile system is intended to support a child's rehabilitation and future growth, and resolve cases quickly. However, in practice that doesn’t always happen.
The adult system is focused on the same idea of rehabilitation and growth, but there is a greater emphasis on accountability and public safety.
What penalties can juveniles face if adjudicated delinquent?
Penalties vary depending on the offense but may include up to 2 years of probation, 45 days of detention, or 60 days of boot camp. Other penalties include public service, restitution, and placement outside the home. These are the standard sentencing options, but there are other options.
Will a juvenile case stay on my child’s record?
Unless sealed or expunged, a juvenile record may remain on their record and be visible to schools, some employers, and licensing agencies. An attorney can help you determine when and how to petition for sealing. And if a petition is necessary, there are many cases that will be automatically sealed by the court.
Does my child need a lawyer for a juvenile offense?
Yes. Even though the juvenile system focuses on rehabilitation, having juvenile offenses on their record can negatively impact your child’s future. A skilled attorney will protect your child’s rights and minimize long-term impacts.
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