What Parents Need To Know About The Juvenile Justice Process In Pinellas County
Few things are more frightening for a parent than learning their child has been arrested or faces criminal charges in Pinellas County. While Florida’s juvenile justice system is designed differently from the adult system, with an emphasis on rehabilitation over punishment, penalties associated with a juvenile conviction can still be harsh. If your child is detained or accused of a crime, our experienced Seminole juvenile delinquency lawyer explains what you need to know to protect your child.
What Happens When a Minor Gets Arrested in Pinellas County?
In Florida, minors (generally under age 18) accused of crimes enter the juvenile justice system, which is governed by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). Here’s what typically happens:
- Intake Assessment: A DJJ officer interviews your child and evaluates their risk level and needs.
- Detention Hearing: Within 24 hours of arrest, a judge determines whether your child stays in detention or gets released to your custody.
- Formal Charges: The State Attorney’s Office decides whether to proceed with a delinquency petition.
- Diversion or Prosecution: If eligible, alternative sentencing and diversion programs may be available.
- Adjudicatory Hearing: Similar to a trial, the judge hears evidence and decides if the child committed the offense.
- Disposition Hearing: If adjudicated delinquent, the court imposes sanctions such as probation, counseling, or commitment to a DJJ facility.
In cases of major crimes, minors can be charged as adults. This is rare but carries serious long-term consequences.
What Pinellas County Parents Can Do If Their Child Gets Arrested
Knowledge is power when it comes to the criminal justice system. In addition to understanding how the juvenile justice process works, there are concrete steps parents can take to protect their children if they face criminal charges in Pinellas County. These include:
- Stay calm and get legal help immediately: Avoid speaking with law enforcement without legal representation.
- Be present and supportive during proceedings: Attend the detention hearing, intake assessment, and all court dates if possible.
- Gather important information: This includes your child’s school performance, mental health history, and character references.
- Ask about diversion programs: Pinellas County Juvenile Diversion Services offers alternatives to formal prosecution for first-time or low-level offenders.
- Help your child comply with court orders: Ensure your child follows curfews, counseling mandates, or community service requirements.
Your involvement as a parent sends a powerful message to the court that your child has guidance, structure, and support at home. The above efforts, combined with strong legal advocacy, help protect your child and achieve the best possible outcome in their criminal case.
Schedule A Consultation Today With Our Seminole Juvenile Delinquency Lawyer
If your child is facing juvenile charges in Pinellas County, the outcome could negatively impact them both now and in the future. The Reep Law Firm offers caring support during this difficult time and the fierce legal representation you need to protect your child throughout the juvenile justice system. Contact our experienced Seminole juvenile delinquency lawyer today to schedule a confidential consultation.
Sources:
djj.state.fl.us/
jud6.org/ContactInformation/TeenCourtPinellas.html
