Champaign-Urbana Juvenile Crimes Defense Lawyers

Helping Defend Your Child Against Criminal Allegations

In Illinois, the juvenile court system aims to be rehabilitative, but a conviction can still bring severe consequences and a permanent record.

Johnson Law Group, LLC is committed to helping defend your child against criminal allegations. Our attorneys will work hard to get the case dismissed or reduced. If necessary, we can work to get a lesser sentence for your child.

Call our Champaign-Urbana juvenile defense team at (309) 565-8825 to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

What Are Juvenile Crimes in Illinois?

Juvenile crimes are offenses committed by minors. The crimes are handled by the juvenile court system, which is separate from the adult system.

Common juvenile crimes include:

• Sexting
• Petty theft
• Sex crimes
• Shoplifting
• Drug crimes
• Property crimes
• Weapons crimes
• Underage drinking
• Assault and battery
• Minor in possession of alcohol

Juveniles can also face charges for school discipline violations, such as fighting, truancy, and vandalism committed on school grounds or during school hours.

How Does Illinois Handle Juvenile Crimes?

In Illinois, the juvenile court system manages all cases involving minors under 18. However, the state's attorney can transfer serious cases to adult court to prosecute the child as an adult. This elevation typically happens for severe crimes like murder or rape. It can also occur for minors aged 16 and above facing felony charges.

After an arrest, a child goes to a juvenile detention center. At a detention hearing, the judge decides whether to:

• Place the child in a foster home
• Release the child to their parents
• Keep the child in a juvenile detention center
• Place the child in a group home or residential treatment facility

Next, the child attends a hearing similar to an arraignment in adult court. At this hearing, the judge reads the charges, and the child enters a plea. If the child pleads not guilty, the case moves to an adjudicatory hearing, akin to a trial. The judge hears evidence and decides the outcome. If the child enters a guilty plea, the case proceeds to a dispositional hearing for sentencing.

If the child is found guilty, the judge may order the child to:

• Pay restitution
• Be placed on probation
• Perform community service
• Attend counseling or therapy
• Complete a substance abuse program
• Be placed in a juvenile detention center or correctional facility

Instead of a conviction, the judge issues a “finding of delinquency.” If placed on probation, the child's case is reviewed every six months. During these reviews, the judge may dismiss the case when the child turns 18 and meets all probation conditions.

What Is the Difference Between Juvenile and Adult Courts?

The juvenile court system aims to rehabilitate, whereas the adult court system seeks to punish. Consequently, penalties for juvenile crimes are usually less severe. Children will not have a criminal record from juvenile court. However, certain convictions, like sex crimes, can still have long-term consequences.

Consequences of a Juvenile Crime Conviction

When a child is found guilty of a crime in Illinois, they could face:

• Fines
• Probation
• Restitution
• Community service
• Loss of driving privileges
• Loss of professional licenses
• Difficulty finding employment
• Loss of educational opportunities

Long-Term Consequences

Education and employment prospects can drastically change a juvenile conviction. A child could be disqualified from scholarships or financial aid, which negatively impacts college admissions and job opportunities.

How Johnson Law Group, LLC Could Help

If your child is facing charges, our attorneys will do everything we can to protect your child's future and aim for the best possible outcome.

We handle all types of juvenile crime cases, including:

• DUI
• Sex crimes
• Drug crimes
• Violent crimes
• Property crimes
• Weapons crimes

Contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our Champaign-Urbana juvenile crimes defense attorneys.