Macon Juvenile Crime Attorneys

Macon Defense Lawyers Protecting Charged Minors

At Cooper, Barton & Cooper, our Macon juvenile criminal lawyers have experience representing the State and families in juvenile law cases. Team leader Ashley Cooper spent several years as the lead prosecutor in the Juvenile Court of Bibb County while employed as an Assistant District Attorney.

For the past several years, Ms. Cooper and our other team members have handled a wide range of juvenile cases including matters of juvenile delinquency, drug offenses, traffic violations, dependency issues, school disciplinary panels, and DFCS matters. Our team members care about our clients on an individual basis and know that their representation can make a tremendous impact in the life of each juvenile client.

If you or your child are facing a juvenile charges, discuss your case in a free consultation with our team of Macon juvenile crimes attorneys at Cooper, Barton & Cooper!

Delinquency Proceedings

The Federal Juvenile Delinquency Act states that an action is considered juvenile delinquency if committed by a minor who is under 18 years old but the action is otherwise considered a crime by state law. Several rules are then outlined in regards to procedures of juvenile courts, and the punishments they must hand out.

Individuals who are younger than 17 years old when the alleged crimes were committed will generally receive different treatment than adult offenders committing the same crimes.

While juvenile defendants do share legal rights with adults to some extent, this is not true across the board. Rather than trial by jury, for example, juvenile cases are reviewed by a Juvenile Court judge. Judgments can range from case dismissals and long-term confinement.

In the case of juveniles, confinement can mean:

• Youth Detention Center
• Youth camp
• Adult correctional facility

Whereas the adult criminal justice system is generally a punitive one, the judgments on juvenile cases are intended to help with rehabilitation.

My Child is Facing Charges - Now What?

As soon as you find out that your child has had a run-in with the law, the clock is ticking. Retaining a skilled and determined Macon juvenile crime attorney to represent you can provide the critical insight you need on the rights that each of you has. Whether the case is able to remain to be tried in Juvenile Court, or is moved up to the Superior Courts, our criminal defense team has the thorough attention to detail necessary to fight for your child's rights.

Understanding the Legal Process for Juvenile Crimes

Navigating the legal landscape for juvenile crimes can be daunting for both young offenders and their families. At Cooper, Barton & Cooper, we believe that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to understanding your rights and the implications of juvenile offenses. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you are fully informed and prepared for what lies ahead.

Here are some key aspects of the juvenile legal process that every parent and guardian should know:

• Initial Detention: Learn what to expect if your child is taken into custody, including their rights and the role of law enforcement.
• Juvenile Court Proceedings: Understand how juvenile court differs from adult court, including the focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
• Plea Bargains and Trials: Discover the options available for resolving cases, including plea agreements and the potential for a trial.
• Sentencing Options: Familiarize yourself with the various outcomes that can result from a juvenile offense, which may include community service, probation, or rehabilitation programs.
• Expungement Opportunities: Explore how certain juvenile offenses can be expunged from your child’s record, providing them with a fresh start.

By understanding the juvenile justice system, you can better advocate for your child’s future. Our dedicated team at Cooper, Barton & Cooper is committed to providing compassionate representation and effective legal strategies tailored to your unique situation. 

Representation with Dedication & Experience

Cooper, Barton & Cooper’s Juvenile Law team is driven by an unwavering dedication to helping your child regain their footing and ensuring that they get the chance to turn over a new leaf. Our emphatic and experienced advocacy can make a remarkable difference in whether or not a case is resolved satisfactorily. Regardless of what you are facing, our team has the skill you need to address it with poise and finesse.

Our Macon juvenile defense lawyers at Cooper, Barton & Cooper stands prepared to assist you to understand the proceedings and to provide that legal guidance. Call today to schedule your free case evaluation!