Juvenile cases are handled very differently than criminal cases in adult court. The main issue that will be addressed promptly with your step son is whether he will be considered a juvenile or an adult. Several factors, such as prior juvenile history, the presence of a gun and/or the impact of the burglary could all be considered in the prosecutor and judges decision to try your step son a juvenile or an adult.

For a criminal defense lawyer to correctly assess your case, they should meet with you, review any reports available and meet with your step son. Each of the questions that you asked are great questions. Unfortunately, those questions cannot be answered without additional information. Always remember that cases in juvenile court are supposed to look at what is in the best interest of the juvenile. Adult court is a completely different game.

If your step son was charged with burglary and he is 16, the Court will appoint a lawyer to represent him, usually a public defender. If there are several people accused of committing the burglary, the court will appoint different lawyers for each person accused.

Our firm has been representing people accused of committing a crime for almost 40 years, including lots of juvenile cases. That is all we do.

Legal matters are very complicated. We recommend that you seek immediate legal representation. A competent criminal defense lawyer can explain small differences in the law or the facts that could dramatically affect this case. Our office is available 24/7 to represent you with any criminal matter. You can contact us at any time.

Answer Applies to: Arizona
Replied: 8/16/2010

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.