What is Juvenile Court?

Learn More From Your Trusted Juvenile Court Representation

While Juvenile Court exists to determine various issues, such as paternity, custody, child support, abuse and neglected children, it also exists to hear criminal cases against juveniles under the age of 18. The Juvenile Court will hear offenses against children who have been charge with minor misdemeanor offenses, traffic offenses, misdemeanors, and felonies.

In other words, Juveniles can be charged with the same type of crime for which an adult can be charged. If they are found guilty, they are considered delinquent and depending on the charge, they may incur various penalties, including:

  • Probation
  • Children Service Placement
  • License Suspensions
  • Fines and Costs
  • Incarceration in the Ohio Department of Youth Services

Because Juvenile charges may involve the loss of freedom and constitutional issues, a child (juvenile) enjoys the same protections from the United States Constitution as an adult. If a child has been charged with a criminal offense, it is very important that they are provided with experienced legal counsel before giving any statements to police or government authorities.

Juvenile Courts have their own set of rules and procedures which they follow. The court handles cases from the ages of 10 through ones 18th birthday. In cases that involve serious felony charges, or crimes of violence, the Court can decide to bind the Juvenile over or send the Juvenile to Adult Court and try the Juvenile as an Adult. In Juvenile Court, there are no jury trials, and Juveniles may not be released on bail.

Juvenile Court Penalties

The Juvenile Justice System is designed to provide rehabilitation as opposed to punishment. The Court ultimately wants to see the Juvenile succeed and become a productive and contributing member of society. However, the Court can impose penalties for serious Juvenile Offenders which may include fines, treatment, programs, house arrest, detention, probation and even incarceration in the Ohio Department of Youth and Services.

Expungement and Sealing of Juvenile Records

Our office handles the expungement or sealing of Juvenile records for clients throughout Ohio. A juvenile conviction in your history may negatively effect your ability to obtain a job, attend the college of your choice, or otherwise cast a cloud over your reputation. If you have a juvenile record, it would be advisable to have those records sealed so that those records would be officially closed and sealed.

Not all Juvenile Records can be expunged. Some serious crimes and violent offenses preclude one from having their Juvenile records sealed. Ohio law controls the process and procedures for expungement of a Juvenile Records.

Let our experience and our knowledge help you get your Juvenile Record expunged. Please see our website  www.ohioexpungementlaw.com for further information regarding Expungement and sealing of criminal records.