New Hampshire has a juvenile justice system established to address criminal offenses committed by juvenile offenders. Juvenile criminal cases are not dealt with through the same system as adult criminal cases. Rather, they are addressed in family court, which is typically closed to the public. Juvenile cases begin with an initial appearance where preliminary conditions are set, often including the assignment of a juvenile probation and parole officer and continue through a final adjudicatory hearing or a trial where a juvenile may be found responsible or not responsible for a criminal offense. Records of juvenile convictions are not typically available in response to criminal record checks.
The vast majority of juvenile cases are dealt with through programming, drug screening, counseling and supervision by a probation and parole officer. Frequently, juvenile courts join the school system as a party to a case in order to supply additional supervision and academic monitoring of juvenile offenders. Serious juvenile cases may result in out of home placement, including in juvenile detention centers. The Division of Child Youth and Families also may become involved where there are concerns for abuse and neglect in the home. In rare circumstances, involving serious allegations of criminal wrongdoing perpetrated by juveniles, such as rape and murder, a juvenile may be certified as an adult for prosecution in adult criminal court. The certification process is complicated and involves an evaluation of age, intellectual maturity and the nature of the offense as well as other considerations.
The criminal team at Shaheen & Gordon, P.A. defends juvenile cases and regularly appears in family court. Seasoned defense is particularly helpful when dealing with a prosecutor, juvenile probation officer, school officials and, from time to time, DCYF officials.
We work with all concerned parties to fashion realistic outcomes and then assist our clients to meet case goals. We also size up the allegation, consider the evidence and work with even our youngest clients to determine when to contest allegations and try cases. . The firm of Shaheen & Gordon, P.A. is one of the largest and fastest-growing in the state and is committed to assisting clients at all levels of the criminal justice system, including in the juvenile justice system. Call today to learn more about how we can help.
Fight Juvenile Charges in New Hampshire
Contact Shaheen & Gordon, P.A. right away if you are in need of a capable juvenile defense attorney. Whether fighting a juvenile charge or working with the participants in the juvenile justice system to fashion a reasonable outcome, our attorneys work together to maximize your defense. We understand our responsibilities when dealing with our youngest clients — to protect them and their future. We provide caring counsel and capable defense in juvenile cases.
