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Chicago Juvenile Crime Defense Attorneys

Your Child's Future Doesn't Have to Be Defined by One Mistake

Juvenile records can follow children into adulthood. We fight to protect your child's education, career opportunities, and future.

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Free ConsultationsAvailable 24/7Former Prosecutor

Understanding Juvenile Crime Defense

The juvenile justice system is supposed to be about rehabilitation, not punishment. But prosecutors don't always see it that way. A juvenile record can affect college applications, financial aid, military service, and future employment. We work to keep your child out of the system entirely or minimize the long-term impact.

Juvenile Crime Defense Charges We Handle

Juvenile Drug Possession

varies

Possession of cannabis or controlled substances

Juvenile Theft

varies

Shoplifting and retail theft by minors

Juvenile Battery

varies

Fighting, assault, and battery charges

Vandalism/Criminal Damage

varies

Property destruction and graffiti

Underage DUI

varies

Zero tolerance for minors driving under the influence

Serious Juvenile Offenses

felony

Cases where prosecution may seek adult transfer

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Illinois Juvenile Crime Defense Penalties

These are the potential consequences you face. We fight to reduce or eliminate them.

Juvenile Adjudication (Delinquency)

Jail/Prison:Probation to detention until age 21

Fines:Varies by offense

Community service

Counseling required

Curfew restrictions

Transfer to Adult Court

Jail/Prison:Adult sentencing applies

Fines:Adult fines apply

Adult criminal record

Prison possible

Sex offender registry if applicable

Extended Juvenile Jurisdiction

Jail/Prison:Juvenile detention plus adult sentence stayed

Fines:As ordered by court

Intensive supervision

Adult sentence if violation

Until age 21

Common Defense Strategies

Every case has potential defenses. Here's how we challenge juvenile crime defense charges.

Diversion Programs

First-time offenders often qualify for diversion that results in no record at all.

Age-Appropriate Defense

Children don't think like adults. We present age-appropriate context.

School Discipline Issues

We challenge school-to-prison pipeline cases where schools over-involve police.

Peer Pressure Defense

Minors are susceptible to peer influence. We provide context for their actions.

Informal Adjustment

We negotiate with prosecutors to resolve cases without formal charges.

Transfer Opposition

We fight against attempts to transfer cases to adult court.

These are just starting points. Your specific case may have unique defense opportunities.

Discuss Your Defense Options

Video Guide

Understanding Juvenile Crime Defense in Illinois

Watch Attorney Castellano explain juvenile crime defense charges, potential penalties, and how we build winning defense strategies.

What prosecutors must prove
Common weaknesses in these cases
What to expect in your case

Watch More Videos

HeyGen AI Video3:45

Illinois Law: Key Statutes

705 ILCS 405/5-105

Juvenile Court Act - jurisdiction and procedures for minors.

705 ILCS 405/5-130

Transfer to criminal court - factors for trying minors as adults.

705 ILCS 405/5-915

Expungement of juvenile records - eligibility and procedures.

This is general information only. Consult with an attorney about how these laws apply to your specific case.

Juvenile Crime Defense Case Results

Real results for clients facing similar charges. Every case is different, but these outcomes show what's possible.

DIVERTED

Juvenile Retail Theft

Teen diversion program, no record

DISMISSED

Juvenile Battery (School Fight)

Self-defense established, charges dropped

DENIED

Transfer Motion

Kept in juvenile court, rehabilitation ordered

View All Case Results

Frequently Asked Questions: Juvenile Crime Defense

Will my child have a criminal record?

Juvenile records are generally confidential and can often be expunged. However, some serious offenses may be accessible. We work to prevent adjudication or ensure records are sealed.

Can my child be tried as an adult?

Illinois law allows transfer to adult court for certain serious offenses committed by minors 15 and older. We vigorously oppose transfer motions, presenting evidence that the juvenile system is appropriate.

Should I let my child talk to police?

No. Children have the same right to remain silent as adults, and they're particularly vulnerable to making incriminating statements. Always insist on an attorney before any questioning.

Will this affect my child's college applications?

Most juvenile adjudications don't need to be disclosed on college applications. However, some applications ask about all legal history. We work to minimize any impact on your child's future.

What is juvenile supervision?

Supervision is a form of court monitoring that, if successfully completed, results in dismissal of charges. It's similar to adult supervision and is often the best outcome in juvenile cases.

Related Practice Areas

Drug Crimes Theft Crimes Violent Crimes View All Practice Areas →

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