Are Juveniles Entitled to a Jury Trial?

While some legal rights are the same in adult and juvenile cases, a few differ, including the right to a jury trial. While adults are entitled to a fair trial by jury if they desire, juveniles don’t have this right, unless they are being sentenced as adults. This is due to the procedures of juvenile court, a division of Michigan family court. No matter what crime you or your juvenile child has been accused of, contact Grabel & Associates now for aggressive defense. Our skilled juvenile defense attorneys have the knowledge and experience needed to effectively defend you from harsh and unjust punishment, and we are dedicated to achieving beneficial case outcomes for our clients statewide.

Michigan Juvenile Crime Defense Lawyer Defending Underage Offenders at Trial in Lansing, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Throughout Michigan

Understanding your rights is critical in any criminal case, and even more so in juvenile cases when the defendant could easily be taken advantage of. It is easy for police and prosecutors to appear to be on your side, when really they are working to secure a conviction as quickly as possible. Our lawyers are aware of Michigan police tactics in juvenile crime cases, and we will do all we can to protect you from the investigative strategies that could lead to wrongful conviction or unjust sentencing.

How is Juvenile Court Different Than Adult Court in Michigan?

The juvenile court division of family court is focused on rehabilitation rather than incarceration, and only one out of every 20 cases results in any kind of institutionalization. Because of the unique sentences handed out in juvenile courts, a jury is not necessary, and the right to a jury trial does not apply. This, however, does not mean that a full trial requiring an exceptional attorney won’t take place. You still have the right to a trial before a judge if accused of a juvenile delinquency action in Michigan, and you will be able to call witnesses and present your case while the prosecution carries the burden of proof to demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that you did commit a crime.

Grabel & Associates is always available for alleged juvenile offenders in Michigan, and we want to stand with you in your battle against harsh criminal punishment. Contact our MI juvenile crime defense law firm now for a free initial case consultation, and learn more about your legal rights throughout every stage of your case.

Juvenile Jury Trial Right in Michigan

Since juvenile defendants do not have the right to a jury trial, it is extremely important to work with an attorney who understands the juvenile court system and how judges make their decisions, and who has experience working with underage clients to achieve just case results. Grabel & Associates has worked with countless clients over the past decade in both juvenile and adult courts statewide, and our team has established a reputation as a premier choice for defendants in drug crime, sex crime, theft, violent crime, and all other criminal cases. Contact our law firm right away to begin defending against life-changing penalties.

Our Approach to Juvenile Court Cases

While some procedures are different, the goal of juvenile court trials remains the same: to stand up for your rights and aggressively defend your freedom. Grabel & Associates understands what it takes to help you achieve your legal goals, and we have the hands-on experience needed to prove our ability to earn great case results. Juvenile crime is taken very seriously in Michigan, and anyone under the age of 18 who has been charged with a criminal offense should speak with an attorney immediately. Alternatively, parents can contact a lawyer on behalf of their child, and receive valuable information about the next steps to take in the criminal justice process.

Never assume a juvenile charge will be taken lightly by police and prosecutors; what may seem to be a small childish mistake could lead to years of restitution, rehabilitation, and even a record of the offense. Our lawyers will help you determine the legal issues affecting your case, and will look over every detail of the prosecution’s accusations against you so that we are able to prepare a legal strategy based on the details of your unique case.

Contact Grabel & Associates for Aggressive Criminal Defense

Our firm is available 24/7 for a free initial case consultation. Call 1-800-342-7896 now to speak confidentially with a case analyst, or contact us online. Under the direction of trial attorney Scott Grabel, our team will guide you through every step of your juvenile crime case, and will help you use your rights to your advantage so that you are not unjustly punished.