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Juvenile law in Indiana focuses on individuals under 18 who are accused of committing delinquent acts. The juvenile justice system aims to rehabilitate rather than punish young offenders, emphasizing education, treatment, and community support.

Indiana Code 31 governs the state’s juvenile law system, encompassing both civil and criminal matters. Our team, led by Roy Dominguez, possess an in-depth knowledge of these statutes, ensuring that every case we handle is approached with precision and expertise. We recognize that juvenile courts in Indiana have jurisdiction over a wide array of cases, from allegations of criminal acts to matters of family law, and we are equipped to handle each with the utmost care and professionalism.

• Status Offenses

  • Acts considered unlawful only because of the juvenile’s age (e.g., truancy, curfew violations, underage drinking).

• Delinquent Acts

  • Acts that would be crimes if committed by an adult (e.g., theft, assault, drug offenses).

• Juvenile Traffic Offenses

  • Violations of traffic laws by individuals under 18.

• Intake and Assessment

  • Initial assessment by juvenile probation officers to determine the appropriate course of action.
  • Possible outcomes: informal adjustment, diversion programs, or formal court proceedings.

• Detention Hearing

  • Held within 48 hours of detention to determine if the juvenile should remain in custody pending further proceedings.

• Adjudication Hearing

  • Equivalent to an adult trial where the judge determines if the juvenile committed the alleged acts.
  • No jury in juvenile court.

• Disposition Hearing

  • If adjudicated delinquent, the judge decides on the appropriate rehabilitative measures.
  • Possible dispositions: probation, community service, counseling, or placement in a juvenile facility.

The juvenile justice process in Indiana differs significantly from the adult criminal process. It is crucial to understand these distinctions to protect the rights and futures of those involved. Our firm is well-versed in the nuances of the Indiana juvenile justice system, providing guidance and representation that is tailored to the unique needs and circumstances of each young client.

Juveniles in Indiana have specific rights, including:

• The right to an attorney
• The right to remain silent
• The right to confront and cross-examine witnesses
• The right to appeal decisions

Parents or guardians play a crucial role in the juvenile justice process. They are typically required to attend hearings and may be involved in the development of rehabilitation plans.

For parents and guardians, the journey through the juvenile justice system can be overwhelming. Our firm offers comprehensive guidance and support, ensuring that you are well-informed and empowered to make decisions that are in the best interest of your child. We provide clear explanations of the process, your rights, and the potential outcomes, helping you navigate each step with confidence.

Indiana offers various programs aimed at rehabilitating juvenile offenders and preventing future delinquency:

• Diversion Programs: Allow juveniles to avoid formal court proceedings by completing specific requirements (e.g., community service, counseling).
• Probation: Juveniles are supervised and must comply with court-ordered conditions.
• Treatment Programs: Focus on addressing underlying issues such as substance abuse, mental health, or behavioral problems.

In certain cases, juveniles can have their records expunged, meaning the records are sealed or destroyed, making them inaccessible to the public. This can significantly improve future opportunities for the juvenile.

If your child is facing juvenile charges in Indiana, having experienced legal representation is crucial. The Law Office of Roy Dominguez is dedicated to protecting the rights and future of young individuals. We provide compassionate and effective legal services tailored to the unique needs of juvenile cases.