Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Federal Way

It can be frightening when your son or daughter is facing a criminal charge. Young adults have so much of their life ahead of them that an offense can profoundly impact the rest of their lives.

To protect their future, a juvenile defense lawyer in Federal Way acts quickly and fights aggressively to secure reduced charges,  alternative sentencing, a dismissal, or an acquittal.

Puget Law Group uses our more than 150 years of combined experience to effectively defend young people and support their families. A Federal Way criminal defense lawyer provides sound counsel to help you and your family navigate the juvenile justice system and secure a more favorable outcome. They will prioritize your case and provide exceptional service from start to finish.

Understanding the Impact of Juvenile Charges in Federal Way, WA

Juvenile charges can be intimidating for young people, as well as their families. A criminal record can impact a young person’s ability to find gainful employment later in life, secure housing or financing, and pursue higher education. They may also experience social stigma and altered relationships in their lives. A juvenile criminal defense attorney prepares your family for what to expect now and in the future.

Parents may ask if a juvenile can be tried as an adult in Washington state. While it doesn’t happen often, adolescents can be tried as adults in certain cases. This is most common for serious violent offenses, especially if the offender is 16 or 17 years of age. Offenses may include murder or manslaughter, homicide, assault, kidnapping, or rape. Multiple violent offenses or felonies may also apply.

Whether your child is tried as a juvenile or an adult, it’s important to know what you can do if your child has been arrested. Always hire a lawyer right away to protect your child’s rights. Stay calm and encourage your son or daughter not to say anything until the lawyer you’ve hired has arrived. Additionally, provide your child with the support and stability they need during this time.

Types of Crimes That Juveniles Can Be Tried for in Washington

Juveniles can be charged with a wide variety of misdemeanor or felony offenses. When this happens, it’s essential to work with a juvenile defense attorney in Federal Way to understand your son or daughter’s legal rights and options.

The type of offense can make a difference in how the case is handled. According to RCW 13.40.0357, young people can be tried for various types of crimes, which may include:

• Arson and malicious mischief
• Assault
• Burglary and trespassing
• Drug offenses
• Gun and weapon offenses
• Homicide
• Kidnapping
• Obstruction of government operations
• Disturbing the public
• Sex offenses
• Theft, robbery, extortion, and forgery
• Vehicular crimes
• Animal cruelty
• Bomb threats

Each type of offense requires a different approach, and a criminal defense lawyer understands the nuances of each one and what factors must be considered. Your lawyer will assess the case against your child and seek to leverage weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to get a better outcome. Your lawyer will also tailor their defenses and strategies to the alleged offense.

Potential Penalties and Alternatives for Juvenile Offenses in Federal Way

The penalties for juvenile offenses will largely depend on the details of the offense and the age of the offender. Given their young ages, juveniles face different penalty options than adults.

This may look like community service or confinement to a lesser degree, rehabilitation services, or confinement.  Home monitoring may also be one of the alternatives to secure detention for youths.

Juvenile diversion and partnership for youth justice programs are also an option for some young adults. This allows young adults to avoid incarceration while still serving a sentence or receiving mandated treatment. As the name implies, these programs are designed to provide youth with the resources they need so they are diverted from committing additional or more serious criminal offenses in the future.

A Federal Way juvenile defense attorney will communicate on your behalf throughout every stage of your case so they can help your child avoid serious penalties for their offense.

They will leverage their relationships and resources to negotiate more favorable terms and alternatives so your child’s future is not ruined because of their offense. They will be your ally and never stop advocating for your child.

Additional Programs in King County

King County also provides other programs and services for juveniles who have committed offenses and are in the justice system. These options help them avoid further legal issues and provide support to rebuild their future in light of legal charges or convictions. The county provides resources for families as well to support them through this difficult time and improve familial and community relationships.

Common Defenses Used in Juvenile Cases in Federal Way, WA

The defense your lawyer will use in your child’s case depends on the type of crime committed, the severity of the offense, and aggravating and mitigating factors.

A Federal Way juvenile defense lawyer from Puget Law Group will carefully and strategically fine-tune your child’s defense to ensure it effectively fights the charges against them. Some common defenses outlined in RCW Chapter 9A.16 that may be used include:

• Self-defense
• Duress
• Entrapment
• Intoxication
• Rights violations
• Mishandling of evidence
• Improper procedures

These defenses are designed to ensure a young adult’s rights are protected, show why they couldn’t have committed the alleged crime, or leverage areas of weakness in the opposition’s case.

Lawyers will advocate and negotiate with prosecutors and the courts to get charges reduced, dismissed, or acquitted, so your child has a better future outlook.

Hire a Federal Way Juvenile Crime Defense Attorney Today

Puget Law Group understands the concerns you have when your child is facing criminal charges, and what this could mean for their future. We work diligently to get them the most favorable outcome possible and mitigate the long-term effects on their life.

To hire a juvenile defense attorney in Federal Way to guide your family through these legal challenges, schedule a free consultation today.