Student Defense in Jefferson County

It could be both frightening and overwhelming as a parent or guardian if your minor student encounters legal problems. Having someone in your corner who is familiar with proper legal procedures pertaining to youth and who can advocate for your minor student could give you peace of mind. A Jefferson County student defense lawyer could fight to ensure your student’s rights are protected while working to help achieve a positive legal outcome.

A knowledgeable defense attorney could assess the facts surrounding the case and potentially work to establish a credible defense. Legal issues, regardless if a conviction in criminal court occurs could significantly damage a young person’s ability to pursue career or educational opportunities. Schedule an appointment today to begin discussing potential legal solutions.

Several laws are in place regarding legal procedures involving students or youth. These procedures are generally outlined in Chapter 19 of Title 15 of the Code of Alabama. A student defense lawyer in Jefferson County who is familiar with the different sections of Chapter 19 could help ensure proper procedures are followed for any legal proceedings student accused of a criminal offense may encounter.

Generally, there are specific procedures in place for when dealing with minors in the following court-related situations and events:

• Probation officer investigations for court
• Court examinations
• Arraignment of a minor
• Consent to trial without a jury
• Evidentiary hearings
• Receipt of court notices
• Adjudication
• Disposition

In some cases, depending on the circumstances of the alleged offense, a minor may be charged as a youthful offender and be tried in court. Adjudication as a minor in the juvenile system commonly results in more lenient consequences than a conviction in criminal court which is generally designed to be punitive. A Jefferson County student defense attorney could help a young person facing significant legal issues navigate the complex legal system.

In the event that charges are not dismissed and a student is adjudicated, then disposition following adjudication may depend on whether the underlying offense is categorized as a misdemeanor or felony. For misdemeanors, the court could prescribe an appropriate “correctional treatment as provided by law” for the specific misdemeanor. For felony offenses, the court could choose to suspend a sentence and place the student on probation for up to three years, as well as impose a fine. Whether an individual is facing a felony or a misdemeanor, it is important that they seek the services of a well-established defense lawyer.

A Jefferson County student defense lawyer could help ensure proper procedures are followed during every phase of a legal process that a young student may face. This could substantially help a person’s rights remain intact and unviolated. An attorney could also help someone understand what to expect at each phase of the process. Most importantly, a skilled defense lawyer could work on your student’s behalf.

Expulsion from an educational institution or convictions in criminal court could greatly impede a young person’s ability to find employment and success in the future. If you are concerned that potential legal consequences or a harsh ruling from a university could take away opportunities from your child, schedule a legal consultation with a defense attorney who understands the rules and regulations surrounding such cases. Call today.