Juvenile Law

Panama City, Florida Juvenile Defense Cases

Any person under the age of 18 who commits a crime may be charged as a juvenile. However, the severity of the charges and the penalties can still be severe. In Florida State, juveniles are being sent to Florida Juvenile Corrections for serious crimes. At The Law Offices of Chris Patterson, P.A., we are dedicated to protecting the rights and the futures of minors charged with juvenile crimes.

A juvenile conviction can carry a serious penalty. Contact us today to protect your rights in the Florida Juvenile Justice System.

Juvenile justice versus adult convictions

Juvenile court cases are handled differently than adult criminal cases. Unlike standard criminal procedures, a judge rather than a jury handles juvenile cases. The defendant does have an opportunity to call witnesses and cross-examine state witnesses, but the judge will determine the penalties.

Gang-related crimes: Juveniles in Florida and throughout the country are being locked up for gang-related crimes including attempted murder, assault, firearms possession, or discharging firearms. There are over 300 gangs in the state of Florida, involving thousands of minors.

Drug crimes: Many juvenile offenses involve drug crimes. Whether the juvenile arrest involved drug trafficking, drug possession, or a misdemeanor or marijuana possession, we will challenge the search and seizure of any evidence involved in the case and seek to have all charges dropped and penalties reduced.

Property crimes: While some property crimes are harmless childhood pranks, others involve serious penalties. If your child has been charged with a property crime such as theft, robbery, or arson, we will effectively challenge the allegations against the juvenile and work to prevent serious penalties.

Sex crimes: Juvenile sex crimes are very serious offenses. Not only do they carry heavy penalties, but they can also have a negative impact on the record of a minor, limiting career options and college opportunities. If you think you may be charged in a juvenile sex crime case, or your son or daughter has been accused of committing a sex crime, you need immediate legal representation. We can provide you with the advocacy you need to assert your rights and defend you against sex abuse or assault allegations.