Juvenile Crimes
Juvenile Crimes Attorney in Santa Ana
A criminal accusation can change the course of a young person’s life — long before they fully understand what’s happening. Juvenile charges can affect college admissions, scholarships, and employment opportunities later on. At Glew & Kim, we treat every juvenile case with urgency and compassion, working to protect your child’s record, reputation, and long-term future through proactive and discreet legal representation.
Understanding Juvenile Court in California
Juvenile cases are handled differently than adult cases. The goal of the juvenile justice system is rehabilitation, not punishment — but that outcome depends heavily on early, skilled advocacy. In Santa Ana, juvenile cases are prosecuted by the Orange County District Attorney’s Juvenile Division and heard in specialized courts.
Common juvenile offenses include:
Theft and shoplifting
Drug possession or use
Vandalism or graffiti
Assault, battery, or fighting at school
Underage DUI or hit-and-run
Cyber or social media-related offenses
Even if the court process seems informal, the results can be permanent without the right defense strategy.
Penalties and Consequences for Juvenile Crimes
Depending on the severity of the alleged offense, the court may impose:
Probation or diversion programs (avoiding formal conviction).
Juvenile hall confinement for more serious cases.
Community service or counseling requirements.
Restitution to any alleged victims.
Wardship of the court, where the court takes jurisdiction over the child.
Certain felonies or violent offenses can even be transferred to adult court, exposing minors to adult sentencing. We fight aggressively to keep every case in juvenile court, where rehabilitation and record sealing are possible.
What to Do if Your Child Has Been Arrested
If your child is detained or questioned:
Do not let them speak to police without an attorney present.
Do contact an experienced juvenile defense lawyer immediately.
Do not assume the case will “go away” — school and court records can last for years.
Do gather all school and incident documentation for review.
Visit our Been Arrested? page for urgent next steps or read About Glew & Kim to learn more about our experience defending minors in Orange County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a juvenile record be sealed?
Yes. Most juvenile records can be sealed once the minor completes probation and turns 18.
Will my child go to jail?
In most cases, no. Juvenile courts focus on rehabilitation and diversion programs instead of incarceration.
Can parents attend court hearings?
Yes. Parents or guardians are typically required to attend all juvenile proceedings.
Protect Your Child’s Future — Not Just Their Case
A juvenile mistake shouldn’t dictate the rest of your child’s life. Our attorneys at Glew & Kim are committed to protecting minors’ rights, privacy, and potential through compassionate yet aggressive defense. Contact our office today for a free, confidential consultation.
