Juvenile Defense Lawyer: Protecting McKinney’s Youth

The juvenile justice system in Texas is handled separately from criminal cases in adult court. It is important that your lawyer has a strong command of the rules and procedures that apply in juvenile court. The Collin County Juvenile Probation Department has tremendous power to evaluate juvenile offenses and may refer cases to the prosecutor’s office for serious charges. In more serious cases, the prosecutor may seek to try a juvenile as an adult.

Strong Legal Advocacy For Your Child By A Juvenile Court Defense Attorney

My deep understanding of the juvenile justice system as a whole allows me to effectively serve the needs of my juvenile clients. I will guide my juvenile clients through the entire process. If your child has been arrested, neither you nor your child should speak with the police before hiring a qualified juvenile defense attorney to represent your child during questioning. In detention hearings, through the promotion of diversion programs or alternative placement options, and at every stage of the case, Terri Daniel, Attorney at Law, PLLC, will advocate vigorously on behalf of its juvenile client.

The earlier you hire a qualified attorney in a juvenile case, the more options you have. Diversion programs allow juveniles to do an informal probation in exchange for a dismissal of criminal charges. The juvenile justice system is geared toward rehabilitation. A psychological evaluation may determine that a juvenile is in need of counseling, inpatient treatment or outpatient treatment. In these cases, I may be able to prevent a case from being filed or negotiate for lesser charges or a deferred sentence.

At certain ages, there is a possibility for a juvenile to be certified as an adult. Performing a thorough investigation and speaking with the district attorney early on may prevent this.
In Texas, each county handles juvenile crime very differently. If your child has been accused of a juvenile offense, you need an attorney who practices locally and understands the local detention facility, the local judges and the way laws are usually applied to juveniles in that county. I am proficient in the unique rules and regulations that apply to juvenile cases in Collin County and Denton County.

What To Expect After Accusations Of A Juvenile Crime

When a juvenile faces accusations of a crime in McKinney, Texas, the process begins with an evaluation by the juvenile court system. The court aims to understand the circumstances and assess the appropriate legal response. As the case unfolds, a juvenile defense attorney plays a critical role in defending the accused’s rights and ensuring a fair legal process.

The juvenile court process typically starts with an arrest, followed by a detention hearing to determine if the juvenile should remain in custody pending further proceedings. This is crucial as it sets the stage for how the case will be handled. If the case proceeds, there are further hearings, including an adjudication hearing, which is similar to a trial in adult court, and a disposition hearing, where sentencing is determined.

Throughout the judicial process, the role of a defense attorney is crucial. Terri Daniel, a board-certified criminal law juvenile defense lawyer, delivers aggressive defense. She will challenge the prosecution’s evidence, protect your teen’s interests during plea negotiations and push for the lightest possible penalties.

Juvenile court defense attorney, Terri Daniel is committed to her young clients that’s why she goes beyond the courtroom to provide resources to get to the root of the issue that contributed to juvenile criminal behavior. Recognizing that juvenile offenses often have deeper personal or societal roots, she offers resources and support aimed at addressing these foundational issues. Her holistic approach not only assists with the immediate legal challenges but also promotes rehabilitation and a positive shift in the lives of the juveniles she represents.

McKinney Texas Juvenile Lawyer: Protecting Your Teen’s Future

If your child is suspected or accused of committing a misdemeanor or felony offense, Terri Daniel, Attorney at Law, PLLC, in McKinney, Texas, is here to help. Since 2003, I have maintained a board certification in criminal law with the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. I draw on decades of criminal law experience as a prosecutor and criminal defense lawyer to provide juveniles and families with knowledgeable guidance in a range of juvenile law matters, including:

• Juvenile defense: My deep understanding of the juvenile justice system, the availability of diversion programs, and how probation officers and prosecutors think is a clear strength of my juvenile defense services.
• Sex crimes and juvenile law: While juvenile records are processed differently from adult criminal court records, the effects of a sex crime leveled against a juvenile can impact the entire family. I work tirelessly to protect teens accused of sexual offenses.
• Juvenile drug court in Collin County: If your child is facing drug charges in juvenile court, it is vital for you to seek the assistance of a lawyer who has a command of criminal law and knowledge of the rehabilitative services that may be available. The juvenile drug court may be an option to help your child get back on the right track.
• School disciplinary hearings: Problems with the law and problems in school often go hand in hand. The Juvenile Probation Department and school officials often communicate with each other. Let me help you navigate the school discipline system to safeguard your child’s rights in each forum.
• Minor in possession charges: A simple error in judgment on the weekend or a deep-seated problem with alcohol or other substances may lead to underage drinking allegations. A minor in possession charge can have collateral consequences for your child well into the future. Do not take an alcohol-related offense lightly.
• Terroristic threats charges: Words can be powerful. Understanding when threats go too far can be complex. I help families fight terroristic threats charges.
• Sealing a juvenile record: The records related to a juvenile offense are not always sealed automatically by the juvenile court. Do not let a youthful mistake haunt your child into the future. I will explain the rules and eligibility requirements and guide you through the juvenile record sealing process in Collin County.

Frequently-Asked Questions About Texas Juvenile Law

Dealing with the juvenile justice system can be extremely overwhelming for youths and their parents. To minimize your fears and help you prepare, here are answers to some common questions about juvenile law matters in Texas.

What types of offenses can lead to a juvenile being tried in adult court?

In Texas, juveniles can be tried as adults for serious offenses such as murder, aggravated robbery and sexual assault. The decision to transfer a juvenile to adult court is based on several factors, including the severity of the crime, the juvenile’s age and their prior criminal record.

The process, known as a certification hearing, allows a judge to determine if the juvenile should be tried as an adult.

What is a detention hearing, and what happens during it?

These hearings determine whether a juvenile should be held in custody while awaiting trial. During the hearing, the judge reviews the evidence and hears arguments from both sides to decide whether detention is necessary to ensure the juvenile’s appearance in court and the safety of the community.

The hearing must be held promptly, usually within 24 to 48 hours of the juvenile’s arrest.

What should I do if my child is arrested?

Your child needs immediate protection. Contact a juvenile defense attorney who can guide you through the process, safeguard your child’s rights and prioritize an outcome that benefits your child.

Additionally, help to ensure your child exercises their right to remain silent and does not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present.

Can my child’s juvenile record be sealed?

Yes, under Texas law, juvenile criminal records can be sealed under certain conditions. Once sealed, the records are generally not accessible to the public, which can help your child move forward without the burden of a criminal record.

Since the process for sealing records can vary, it is advisable to consult with a defense attorney with deep experience in juvenile criminal cases.

Can a juvenile record affect my child’s future employment or education opportunities?

Yes, a blemished juvenile record can affect your child’s future opportunities. However, having the record sealed can mitigate these effects, allowing your child to pursue education and employment without bearing the stigma of a criminal record.

I have the experience and fortitude to go the distance with your family when seeking to minimize the impact of juvenile legal issues.

Get Help From A McKinney Defense Attorney For Juveniles – Call Today

If your child is facing disciplinary issues in school or a petition for delinquency in juvenile court, you need a knowledgeable lawyer on your side to protect your child’s rights. I know how difficult it is to choose a lawyer. To that end, I offer free consultations to allow you to make an informed choice. To schedule a consultation, call my office in McKinney at 469-845-9951 or send me a message online now.