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Can Juvenile Crimes Affect a Person Who Commits a Crime as an Adult?
There is a good reason why juveniles who are accused of committing crimes will generally be seen in a juvenile criminal justice system instead of an adult criminal justice system. Imposing severe penalties on youth before they reach adulthood can be incredibly detrimental to their future prospects. Instead of leaving a child stuck in the system as punishment for mistakes where they will be surrounded by others who have a criminal mentality and disposition, the California juvenile system offers positive inspiration and opportunities to help children change their perspective. As a result, when the juvenile justice system is working, youth can look toward a brighter future, and by extension, their community also benefits.
Despite this reality, there are some crimes that a person can commit as a juvenile that can come back and haunt them as an adult. It is essential that when a juvenile is charged with a crime, they have a competent and effective legal defense attorney on their side. The potential long-term repercussions of a conviction could change the trajectory of their life.
In California, Attorney Katie Walsh is an Orange County juvenile defense attorney who can help your child if they are facing criminal charges.
How Juvenile Crimes Can Impact Adult Criminality in California
Anyone can make a misstep or make a bad decision. However, when a child does something wrong, it is usually the accepted approach to give them the benefit of the doubt due to their innate naivety and immaturity simply because of their young age. Certain errors should not necessarily be something that follows a child around in life and hinders their ability to be productive and prosperous adults.
When a child commits an unlawful act, it happens all too often that an inability to secure skilled legal defense can lead to poor legal outcomes that may adversely affect that child in the future. Similarly, parents who believe that a juvenile crime is unserious and will not be something that can harm their child as an adult is another issue.
There are certain crimes a juvenile may commit in California that will not be automatically sealed. As a result, if an individual is convicted of such a crime as a youth and then is convicted of committing another crime in adulthood, they may be subject to enhanced penalties due to their past indiscretions. As an adult, much more serious charges and punishments may be on the table if the adult established a criminal history when they were younger.
Speak to a California Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Juvenile crimes are not insignificant or unserious. Even a minor infraction could have devastating consequences for a youth. When it comes to providing youth with a proper defense and ensuring that their case is handled correctly, it is crucial to work with an attorney who understands the nuances of the juvenile justice system.
To secure experienced juvenile criminal defense services in Orange County, please call the Law Office of Katie Walsh to schedule a free consultation at (714) 351-0178.