Criminal charges can be life-changing no matter your age. When a child, under the age of 18 is charged with a crime or disciplinary action at school, the potential outcomes can follow the child for the rest of his/her life and academic career.
Outer Banks Juvenile Lawyer
If your child has been charged with a crime, you need an attorney familiar with the juvenile justice system in the First Judicial District of North Carolina. Attorney Simmons will work diligently to explain steps and procedures regarding the unique circumstances and challenges in your child’s case.
Common Crimes Committed by Minors
Most non-violent juvenile charges do not result in confinement; however, a youth offender may face sentences including probation, community service, placement in a group home or therapeutic foster home, or detention in the Youth Development Center.
Common crimes committed by minors include:
- Assault
- Larceny
- Underage drinking
- Possession of illegal substances
- Breaking and Entering
- Disorderly Conduct; Resisting a Public Officer
- Cyberstalking; Communicating Threats
Juvenile Court Process
If your child is served with a Petition alleging that he or she has violated a criminal law, the case is immediately referred to a Juvenile Court Counselor. The counselor will schedule an appointment with you and your child, and guided by statute and discretion, the counselor will either defer the case without court intervention or transfer the case into the jurisdiction of the Court.
School Disciplinary Issues
If you and your child are going through the administrative process of short-term and long-term suspensions or expulsions from public school, a juvenile lawyer can assist you. Attorney Chrissy Simmons’ longtime experience in the Juvenile Courts of the First Judicial District and the public school system gives her a deep understanding of laws surrounding common crimes committed by minors, as well as how those charges or policy violations can affect the child’s right to attend public school and participate in extracurricular activities.
There are immediate and time-sensitive objections that must be filed upon receiving a recommendation by the school principal for a short-term or long-term suspension; therefore, you need to contact an attorney without delay in order to preserve your child’s rights. Attorney Chrissy Simmons is intimately familiar with the School Board policies and procedures and will ensure that the school administration follows the same while also steering the administration to stay focused on educating your child.
**The material provided on this website on behalf of C. DeGabrielle Simmons Law Firm, PLLC d/b/a Simmons Law is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice, nor is this information being maintained on this website for the purposes of soliciting clients.
