When Can a Juvenile Be Charged as an Adult in Clinton Township?

When a person under the age of 17 is charged with a criminal offense, it is often beneficial to seek sentencing in the juvenile court system. Juvenile courts focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, and the penalties a defendant faces are often much less severe, and not as permanent as adult court cases. In Clinton and statewide, however, more serious juvenile offenses can lead to a transfer to adult court, and defendants then face the same penalties as regular offenders, regardless of age. In any juvenile crime case, it is essential to work with an experienced defense attorney who knows what it takes to achieve exceptional case results, however this is even truer in cases involving potential adult court sentencing. If you have been accused of a repeat offense, or if you are facing felony charges, it is very possible that prosecutors will seek to move your case to adult court. Contact Grabel & Associates now for a free initial case consultation, and find out more about protecting against long-lasting criminal penalties.

With trial attorney Scott Grabel and the rest of our qualified team on your side, you will be able to aggressively battle back against overzealous police, investigators, and prosecutors who aren’t looking out for your best interests. Our attorneys truly care about your final case result and are dedicated to doing whatever it takes to guide you through each stage of your case. We have established a reputation as a leader in Clinton juvenile defense because we have proven our ability to obtain excellent case results for clients statewide. Let us fight with you to achieve a similarly beneficial result.

Our lawyers have experience working with clients who are facing a variety of criminal charges, including:

• Juvenile Drug Crime
• Juvenile Theft
• Juvenile Violent Crimes, Including Assault and Murder
• Juvenile DUI, Joyriding, and Other Vehicular Offenses
• Juvenile Property Crimes
• Juvenile Sex Offenses

No matter what crime you are accused of, there is always a risk you could be sentenced as an adult. Contact our firm now to find out how to avoid harsh sentencing in an adult criminal court.

When Can a Clinton Juvenile Be Charged and Sentenced as an Adult?

According to Michigan law, specifically the Probate Code, the family division of the circuit court, also referred to as juvenile court, can waive jurisdiction in certain cases. In order for a juvenile court case to be waived to adult court, the defendant must be 14 years of age or older. In addition, he or she must be accused of a felony offense. Before any hearing on the motion to waive jurisdiction, notice shall be given to the juvenile, who should at this point have legal representation. In addition, the court must demonstrate reasonable cause to believe that had the offense been committed by an adult, it would result in a felony and there is sufficient proof to believe the juvenile committed the offense.

If these conditions are met, a hearing will be held to decide whether or not to waive the case to Clinton criminal court. During a hearing, the court will consider the severity of the offense, the juvenile’s attitude concerning the alleged offense, whether or not he or she has a criminal history, and other similar details. It is extremely critical that you work with an attorney who understands juvenile defense during this stage of your case, so that you are able to combat a waiver to adult court.

Our criminal defense lawyers can represent you in any court statewide, and we know what it takes to achieve the best possible case result, no matter what charges you are facing. Get in touch right away so that we can help you fight back against overly harsh allegations and possible penalties. We are always available for clients statewide.

Our Approach to Clinton Juvenile Defense and Adult Court Waiver Defense

Our comprehensive defense approach provides you with representation in every area of your case, both inside and outside the courtroom. After thoroughly reviewing the specifics of your situation, our team will develop an individualized case approach based on your unique legal needs and goals. We are available now for a free, confidential consultation, and can answer some of the questions you might have with no obligation to you. Get in touch early on in your case so that we are able to fully prepare you for a possible waiver hearing and every other stage of your case.

Contact Grabel & Associates for 24/7 Juvenile Felony Defense

No matter what charges you or your child is facing, we are ready to begin fighting for your rights and defending your freedom now. Call 1-800-342-7896 for a free case consultation, or contact us online now to get started.