Texas Juvenile Defense Lawyers

Facing criminal charges in the juvenile justice system can be far more daunting than people may think. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child or a young person needing legal guidance, we at McCarty-Larson, PLLC understand the gravity of your situation, and are here to help you navigate the complexities of juvenile law and strive for the best possible outcome for your case.

McCarty-Larson, PLLC also helps residents in the following areas across Texas: Alvarado, Arlington, Burleson, Dallas, DeSoto, Fort Worth, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, Midlothian, and Waxahachie

What Are Juvenile Crimes?

In Texas, juvenile crimes are offenses committed by individuals who are under the age of 18. These offenses can range from minor infractions to serious criminal acts. When a young person is accused of a crime, the legal process is different from that of adults. The goal is often to guide them towards rehabilitation rather than punishment. However, the consequences of a juvenile conviction can still be severe and can affect a young person’s future.

Common Charges in Texas

Juvenile charges can vary widely depending on the nature of the alleged crime. Some common juvenile offenses include theft, vandalism, drug possession, and assault. More serious charges might involve weapons offenses or serious bodily injury. Each charge comes with its own set of potential consequences and legal considerations. It is important to understand these to better navigate the legal system and protect your rights.

The Juvenile Justice System

The juvenile justice system in Texas is designed to address the needs of young offenders while holding them accountable for their actions. The system includes various stages, such as arrest, detention, hearings — and potentially — trial. At each stage, there are specific procedures and options available that can significantly influence the outcome of the case. Having knowledgeable guidance through these stages is crucial to ensuring the best possible results.

How McCarty-Larson, PLLC Can Help

At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we are committed to offering compassionate representation for young individuals facing legal challenges. Our Texas juvenile defense lawyers work diligently to protect the rights of your child and to seek the most favorable outcome. We understand that this is a difficult time for your family, and we are here to provide the support and legal experience needed to navigate this challenging situation.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Facing juvenile charges can be overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. The legal team at McCarty-Larson, PLLC is dedicated to helping you through every step of the process. We strive to ensure that every possible avenue for a positive resolution is explored. Our goal is to work towards a result that allows your child to move forward with their life with the best possible outcome.

Choosing the Right Team of Texas Juvenile Defense Lawyers

When a young person is facing criminal charges, finding the right legal team is crucial. At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we understand the unique challenges that come with juvenile cases and are dedicated to providing exceptional defense for our clients. Our firm brings over fifty years of combined experience to the table. Our team consists of former law enforcement officers and prosecutors, which gives us a unique understanding of both sides of the legal process. This background allows us to approach each case with a well-rounded perspective, ensuring that every aspect of the situation is carefully considered.

Our impressive reputation is reflected in the over 270 five-star reviews we have received from clients. These reviews highlight our commitment to achieving positive outcomes and the high level of satisfaction among those we have helped. When you choose McCarty-Larson, PLLC, you are choosing a team with a proven track record of success — and a deep commitment to defending your rights.

Defenses to Juvenile Crimes

When defending against juvenile crime charges, it is essential to consider a range of possible defenses. Our experienced team at McCarty-Larson, PLLC can explore several avenues to protect your child’s future.

Mistaken Identity and Alibi

Eyewitness misidentification is a common issue in criminal cases. Sometimes witnesses mistakenly identify someone as the perpetrator, which can lead to wrongful convictions. Our attorneys will work to establish an alibi for your child or provide evidence proving they were not present at the scene of the crime. We scrutinize any discrepancies in the eyewitness’s description of the alleged perpetrator, including physical features, clothing, or the location where the crime occurred.

This careful examination can uncover errors and inconsistencies that support your child’s defense.

Misinterpretations and Accidental Situations

Many juvenile charges arise from misunderstandings or accidental incidents rather than intentional wrongdoing. Miscommunications or unexpected events can sometimes lead to criminal charges. Our team will aim to demonstrate that your child’s actions were not driven by criminal intent and that any alleged criminal behavior was unintentional. We will work to highlight the context and circumstances that led to the charges, showing that your child did not act out of malice.

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement or others lead someone to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to peer pressure and may make impulsive decisions under the influence of others. If entrapment is a defense in your child’s case, we will demonstrate that they were not predisposed to commit the crime and only acted in that manner due to the influence of law enforcement or others. Proving entrapment can sometimes lead to charges being dropped.

Scrutinizing the Evidence

The prosecution must prove your child’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Our attorneys will meticulously analyze the evidence against your child, challenge its validity, and highlight any inconsistencies or weaknesses. If we find that the evidence is insufficient to support the charges, we may be able to get the charges dismissed or reduce their impact.

Procedural Missteps

If there were procedural errors during your child’s arrest or questioning, this could impact the case. For example, if police interrogated your child without informing them of their rights, any statements made might be inadmissible in court. Our team will carefully review the procedures followed and ensure that any violations are addressed, which can lead to the exclusion of evidence or even case dismissal.

Mental Health and Disability

In cases where a mental health disorder or disability impacted your child’s behavior, we can present evidence to argue for alternatives like therapy or counseling instead of traditional legal consequences. If the prosecution failed to consider your child’s mental health or disability, we can use this to argue that the charges should be adjusted or reduced. This approach aims to provide a resolution that considers your child’s specific needs and circumstances.

Diversion Programs

Juvenile courts may offer diversion programs as an alternative to formal adjudication. These programs focus on addressing the underlying issues that contributed to your child’s actions rather than simply punishing them. Programs may include educational activities, community service, or counseling. Successfully completing a diversion program can also help avoid the transition of a juvenile case into adult court.

Mistakes to Avoid After a Juvenile Arrest in Texas

Being arrested for a juvenile crime can be a confusing and stressful experience. It’s important to understand what mistakes to avoid to ensure the best outcome for your child. At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we are here to help guide you through this challenging time. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Don’t Speak Without Legal Representation

One of the biggest mistakes is talking to law enforcement without having a lawyer present. Anything your child says can be used in court. It’s crucial to have a Texas juvenile defense lawyer with you to protect your child’s rights and ensure they don’t say something that could hurt their case.

Avoid Delay in Seeking Legal Help

Another mistake is waiting too long to get legal help. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better. Early intervention can make a big difference in how the case is handled. McCarty-Larson, PLLC, is ready to step in as soon as possible to start building a strong defense.

Don’t Ignore the Charges

Some people might think that the charges will go away on their own, but that is not the case. It’s important to take the charges seriously and address them promptly. Ignoring them can lead to more serious consequences. Our team at McCarty-Larson, PLLC, will work with you to understand the charges and develop a plan to address them.

Avoid Making Assumptions About the Legal Process

It’s easy to assume you know how the legal process works, but juvenile law can be complex. Making assumptions can lead to mistakes that affect the outcome of the case. Our lawyers at McCarty-Larson, PLLC, will explain the process in simple terms and help you navigate every step.

Texas Juvenile Defense Client Story

This client story is for educational purposes only.

Christina’s world seemed to shatter when she found herself in a dark, cold cell. At just 15 years old, she was arrested in Texas for drug possession. It felt like a nightmare that would never end. Her heart raced with fear and uncertainty. How would she face her family? What would her future look like? It was hard to believe that this was happening to her.

Christina’s parents reached out for help, and they found Bria Larson at McCarty-Larson, PLLC. When Bria met Christina, she saw more than just a scared teenager. She saw a young girl with potential, someone who deserved a second chance. Bria wasn’t just a lawyer — she was a guide who believed in Christina’s future and was determined to help her.

Bria listened carefully to Christina’s story, understanding every detail of what had happened. She knew how to navigate the complicated world of Texas juvenile defense, and she took on Christina’s case with compassion and dedication. Bria worked tirelessly, gathering evidence, talking to witnesses, and building a strong defense for Christina.

Every day, Bria reassured Christina, telling her that she was not alone and that she had a chance to clear her name. Christina began to feel a spark of hope for the first time since the arrest. With Bria’s support, she was able to focus on her future and trust that things would get better.

When the day of the court hearing arrived, Christina felt nervous but hopeful. Bria was by her side every step of the way, confidently presenting Christina’s case and fighting for justice. Thanks to Bria’s hard work and commitment, the court found that Christina was not guilty. It was as if a heavy weight had been lifted off Christina’s shoulders — she could finally breathe again and look forward to a brighter future.

Christina’s story is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is hope. With the right support and a dedicated advocate like Bria Larson from McCarty-Larson, PLLC, you can overcome the challenges of being arrested for a juvenile crime in Texas.

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Contact our Texas Juvenile Defense Lawyers at McCarty-Larson, PLLC

If you or your child has been arrested for a juvenile crime in Texas, it’s important to have the right support. At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. Our dedicated team of Texas juvenile defense lawyers is here to offer the help you need. We provide free consultations, giving you the opportunity to discuss your case without any financial pressure.

Our goal is to work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation. We know that every case is unique, and we approach each one with a commitment to understanding your specific circumstances. From the initial consultation through every step of the legal process, our team will stand by your side, guiding you with care and determination.

Reaching out to us is a crucial step towards securing a positive resolution. We are here to answer your questions, provide support, and fight for your rights. Don’t face this challenge alone — contact McCarty-Larson, PLLC today to see how we can help you and your family through this difficult time.