Juvenile Crimes Lawyers in Suffolk

Fighting for Your Child & Protecting Their Future

What happens when a minor is charged with a crime in Virginia? The result depends on a number of factors, including the seriousness of the offense, the circumstances under which the defendant was involved, and the competence of his/her defense attorney. Children and teenagers are no strangers to peer pressure and temptation, and the degree to which one falls astray can mean the difference between being tried as a juvenile or as an adult, and seeing your child placed on probation or sent to a juvenile correction center, or “juvie.”

It’s important to have a focused, experienced juvenile crimes lawyer on your side when your child is arrested and charged with wrongdoing. The legal team at Bush & Taylor, P.C. is ready to assist in any case involving a defendant under the age of 18. Backed by more than 15 years of experience in this area of law, we are deeply familiar with Virginia criminal law. Our team can effectively navigate your child through the system while helping them make well-informed decisions along the way.

Common crimes associated with juvenile delinquency include underage possession of alcohol and/or DUI, possession of drugs, vandalism of property, and even serious crimes like assault and theft. Curfew violations, especially in Virginia, can also cause legal problems for your child.

Will a Juvenile Crime Stay on a Young Person’s Record Permanently?

Juvenile records don’t automatically disappear when a young person turns 18. In many cases, a juvenile’s criminal record can still be accessible and may affect future educational, employment, and housing opportunities. However, there are legal options available to help minimize or clear these records, depending on the specific situation and jurisdiction.

In Suffolk, eligible juvenile records can often be expunged or sealed, meaning they are removed from public view. Expungement involves permanently erasing the record, while sealing means the record is kept confidential but may still be accessed by certain law enforcement agencies or during specific legal proceedings. Eligibility for these options typically depends on factors such as the severity of the offense, the time since the offense occurred, and whether the juvenile has met all court-ordered requirements.

The goal of expungement and sealing is to help young individuals move forward without the lasting stigma of a criminal record. Juveniles with expunged or sealed records are usually not required to disclose their past offenses in most job applications or housing forms, allowing them a fresh start as adults. For the best outcomes, it’s essential to consult with an experienced juvenile crimes attorney who understands the expungement and sealing process in Suffolk and can guide young people and their families through the necessary steps.

Call (757) 926-0078 for an Initial Consultation

When you contact a Suffolk juvenile crimes attorney at Bush & Taylor, P.C., we can examine your child’s case, including everything from physical evidence to eyewitness accounts, and offer a solid defense to avoid a serious conviction. Don’t let an incompetent lawyer determine your child’s future. Contact us today at (757) 926-0078. You can rely on us for the personalized and aggressive advocacy your child deserves.

Our Suffolk juvenile crimes lawyers serve individuals across Eastern Shore and Virginia Beach.