Juvenile Delinquency Actions
What is Juvenile Delinquency IN NEW JERSEY?
Juvenile delinquency is any unlawful act that is committed by a person under the age of 18. An unlawful act is any act, if committed by an adult, that would constitute a crime (felony), disorderly persons offense (misdemeanor), or petty disorderly persons offense.
Acts of delinquency are offenses that would be considered criminal if committed by an adult and are punishable in accordance with the statute. Sentences can include time in custody (jai) in a state facility for juveniles, probation, or attendance of programs designed to help the child.
If charged with a juvenile offense, your child must attend court in the Superior Court, Family Division in the county in which he or she is considered to live. Here, your child has the right to an attorney, the right to receive discovery (evidence), the right to contest the charges, and the right to a trial before the Judge.
Not all attorneys who practice criminal law are familiar with Juvenile court. Ms. Fiorino has been representing juveniles since 2003 and understands what you and your family are going through as well as the what is needed to address the court and protect your child.
What are Some Examples of Delinquent Acts?
There are different types of juvenile offenses some of which are more seious than others. Less serious offenses include:
- Truancy (skipping school);
- Underage drinking/purchase of alcohol; and/or
- curfew violations
- Some offenses can permit time in jail and are considered more serious than minor ordinance violations. Often, the firm represents children charged with:
- Simple Assault
- Criminal Mischief
- Trespassing
- Theft
- Possession of controlled dangerous substance
- Harassment
- Prostitution
- Child Pornography
- Eluding
- Distribution of CDS
- Theft of Services
- Aggravated Assault
- Shoplifting
- Receiving Stolen Property
- Shoplifting
- Joy Riding
- Sexual Assault
- Disorderly Conduct
- Sexual Offenses
- Murder
- Obstruction
- Fraud
- Bad Checks