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The Law Office Of Michael A. Newland
513-816-0307

The Experienced, Local Criminal Defense You Deserve

Personalized Legal Counsel Against Juvenile Charges

If your child is facing criminal charges, their future may suddenly be in doubt. They could face challenges in applying for college, gaining employment or moving into an apartment.

Since 1989, attorney Michael A. Newland has represented individuals across Hamilton and Butler County. He is an advocate for Ohio minors. He works hard to prevent allegations from affecting them for the rest of their lives. He can provide a committed, personalized defense strategy and the responsive service you need throughout a turbulent time.

A Strong Defense For A Wide Array Of Juvenile Charges

Attorney Newland defends clients against a wide array of juvenile law charges, including:

With considerable experience in both misdemeanor and felony criminal charges, Mr. Newland can provide aggressive representation no matter the crime involved.

Potential Punishments For Juvenile Crimes In Ohio

Every case is different, but Ohio juvenile courts have a range of possible outcomes and sanctions. Depending on the charge, the child’s age, prior history and other case facts, punishments may include:

  • Informal or formal probation (community supervision with conditions)
  • Community service hours
  • Restitution to victims for financial losses
  • Mandatory counseling, substance-abuse treatment or educational programs
  • Electronic monitoring or curfew restrictions
  • Temporary detention in a juvenile facility
  • Commitment to the Ohio Department of Youth Services for serious felonies
  • Driver’s license suspensions or restrictions
  • Mandatory registration or reporting requirements for certain sexual offenses
  • Transfer to adult court in cases, which can lead to adult penalties

These penalties are undoubtedly scary for parents to think about, but keep in mind that these are possibilities, not certainties. Ohio courts often prefer rehabilitation over harsh punishment for juveniles, and a qualified attorney can advocate for alternatives that protect a child’s future.

Options To Avoid A Juvenile Conviction

There are multiple paths that can prevent a juvenile from receiving a formal conviction on their record. Again, the options will depend on the facts of the case, the jurisdiction and the juvenile’s prior record, but commonly include:

  • Diversion and informal adjustment programs
  • Juvenile mediation and restorative justice programs
  • Pleading to lesser-included offenses or reduced charges
  • Probation with dismissal provisions
  • Drug court or specialized treatment courts:

Decisions about which route is best require careful legal analysis and swift action. A skilled juvenile defense attorney like Mr. Newland will assess the case to identify diversion opportunities, negotiate with prosecutors and pursue sealing or expungement when eligible.

Implications For Being Tried As An Adult

While a juvenile conviction typically avoids much of the consequences that an adult conviction has, there are future considerations to keep in mind. If your child eventually commits a crime as an adult, the judge may have access to a juvenile court record. This is true even after an expungement.

Additionally, adult court, rather than juvenile court, may try several crimes involving minors. Age, history in juvenile court and the severity of the crime are all factors that the court considers when deciding whether to try the case in criminal or juvenile court.

Why Parents Hire Michael A. Newland

If your child is in trouble, the lawyer you hire will have a tremendous impact on your child’s options and future. Mr. Newland has practiced criminal defense for 36 years, concentrating on juvenile and criminal matters in Hamilton and across Butler County.

When you hire the firm you get Michael, not passed off to someone else. He personally handles strategy, negotiations and court appearances, using long-standing relationships with local judges and prosecutors to pursue diversion and other alternatives whenever appropriate. Unlike general practice firms, his exclusive focus on criminal defense means dedicated, practical experience directed at protecting your child’s future.

Protecting The Future Of Your Child

Juvenile charges prompt parents to consider the potential effects on their child’s future. When your teenager faces charges, the fate of their college prospects or future job opportunities can be in question.

A conviction may affect the college application process. However, many juvenile convictions are generally civil in nature. This means that their impact on future employment may be minimal.

Speak With A Skilled Hamilton Juvenile Law Attorney

Mr. Newland will aggressively and diligently represent your child. Do not wait to involve a lawyer to protect your child’s future. Schedule a free initial consultation at his Hamilton office by calling 513-816-0307 or contacting him online.