Anyone charged with misconduct is entitled to a strong defense, but when the accused is a child, special considerations apply. Nevada’s juvenile justice system recognizes this reality and is designed to resolve cases stemming from alleged unlawful acts by giving young people the tools they need to correct their behavior rather than subjecting them to punishment. Since 2002, the Miley Law Firm, P.C. in Las Vegas has provided experienced support to youthful defendants in a full range of juvenile proceedings. As a seasoned Las Vegas juvenile criminal defense lawyer, I am committed to helping families understand their options and advocating for a suitable disposition for their child in Nevada.
Act now to safeguard your child’s future! Call (702) 942-0600 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with an experienced Las Vegas juvenile defense attorney.
ACCOMPLISHED LITIGATOR DEFENDS ACCUSED YOUTHS IN ALL TYPES OF CASES
I advocate on behalf of subject minors on a full range of cases, including situations stemming from purported alcohol-related offenses, shoplifting, gang crimes, malicious mischief and matters pertaining to allegations of:
- Drug crimes — Increasingly, authorities are realizing that harsh punishment often is counterproductive for individuals charged with drug crimes, especially when the person involved is a juvenile. When a youth has a substance abuse problem, juvenile drug court offers solutions that combine treatment with mentoring, family counseling and other services to get at the true cause behind a possession or use charge.
- Sex crimes — Charges involving explicit images or unwanted contact of a sexual nature demand serious counsel from a qualified Las Vegas juvenile defense attorney. Even sending a picture of one’s own body qualifies a young person as a child in need of supervision. Repeat offenders, children who send images of others and youths accused of assault face findings of delinquency and the possibility of detention and sex offender status. In these matters, I thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the allegations to help prevent clients from being harmed by unwarranted allegations.
- Underage DUI — For drivers under the age of 21, even a blood alcohol concentration of .02 percent can trigger a drunk driving charge. This might also be combined with a count for unlawfully purchasing, consuming or possessing an alcoholic beverage while underage.
In these types of cases and others, our attorney for juveniles provides strong counsel for clients in the juvenile justice system as well as criminal defense representation when someone who is legally a child is tried as adult due to the nature of the alleged offense.
OTHER CHARGES OUR JUVENILE CRIMINAL ATTORNEYS HANDLE
At the Miley Law Firm, P.C., we provide comprehensive legal representation for juveniles facing a wide range of charges, including:
- Theft and Burglary: Including shoplifting, petty theft, and breaking and entering.
- Vandalism: Destruction or defacement of property, including graffiti and other forms of property damage.
- Assault and Battery: Physical attacks or threats of violence.
- Cybercrimes: Hacking, online harassment, and other illegal activities conducted via the internet.
- Trespassing: Unauthorized entry onto private or public property.
- Disorderly Conduct: Public disturbances, such as fighting or causing loud disruptions.
- Truancy: Habitual absence from school without permission.
- Curfew Violations: Being out in public places during restricted hours.
- Status Offenses: Acts that are only considered offenses because of the offender's age, such as running away from home and underage smoking or drinking.
- Shoplifting: Stealing merchandise from stores.
- Vehicle Theft: Unauthorized use or theft of a vehicle.
- Bullying: Physical or emotional harassment of peers.
WHEN CAN A JUVENILE BE CHARGED AS AN ADULT?
Under Nevada law (NRS 62B.390), a juvenile can be charged as an adult in certain situations:
- Felony Charges: If the juvenile is 14 years or older at the time of the alleged offense and is charged with an offense that would be considered a felony if committed by an adult.
- Murder Charges: If the juvenile is 13 years or older and charged with murder or attempted murder.
When a juvenile is certified for criminal proceedings as an adult, the case is transferred to an adult court, which then has original jurisdiction over the juvenile. The juvenile can petition to have the case transferred back to juvenile court, but only if they can show exceptional circumstances.
Additionally, if the juvenile court certifies a juvenile for one offense, it must also certify the juvenile for any related offenses arising from the same incident, regardless of the nature of those related offenses.
UNDERSTANDING NEVADA JUVENILE LAWS AND YOUR RIGHTS
In Nevada, juvenile law is designed to hold minors accountable for their actions while also prioritizing rehabilitation. Juvenile offenders are generally treated differently than adults in the criminal justice system, with an emphasis on education, counseling, and community service. However, facing criminal charges as a minor can still have serious consequences, which is why it’s important to have a trusted Las Vegas juvenile defense attorney on your side. At Miley Law, we specialize in defending juveniles in criminal cases, ensuring that they receive the fair representation they deserve.
For more detailed information, including specific offenses, penalties, and the juvenile court process, be sure to check out our related blog on Nevada’s juvenile laws. It provides helpful insights to guide both minors and their families through this complex area of law.
DEDICATED ATTORNEY ADVISES ON PROBATION AND OTHER ALTERNATIVES TO DETENTION
Organized under Nevada’s Division of Child and Family Services, juvenile services offer several alternatives to residential detention within one of the state’s three youth centers. A key principle is that family engagement is a critical aspect to correcting youthful misconduct, so options such as diversion, monitoring and community supervision often serve everyone’s interests by allowing a child to remain at home while complying with an accountability program. This is especially true for first-time offenders. As a seasoned advocate, I make sure clients and their families have the representation they need to secure an outcome that helps youths move beyond their troubles, whether that is probation, diversion or some other type of disposition.
Contact a seasoned Nevada juvenile justice attorney for assistance with a juvenile charge
The Miley Law Firm, P.C. advises Nevada families on juvenile justice matters, such as charges relating to drug and DUI offenses. To make an appointment for a consultation with our juvenile court lawyers in Las Vegas, please call 702-942-0600 or contact me online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common form of juvenile corrections?
Probation supervision is the most frequently utilized outcome within the juvenile justice system. It often includes additional conditions mandated by the court, such as community service, restitution, or involvement in community treatment programs.
What form of punishment is most common in juvenile cases?
Probation is typically the most common sanction in the juvenile justice system. Judges have significant leeway in determining the terms of probation, which can be tailored to the specific details of each case.
Will a juvenile record show up on a background check?
In Nevada, juvenile records are not generally accessible to the public. However, if the minor is charged as an adult or convicted of certain serious crimes, the record may be visible to certain employers, licensing agencies, and other entities that conduct background checks. It’s essential to work with an attorney for juveniles who can help navigate the legal process and understand the potential long-term consequences of a juvenile record.
Who can see sealed juvenile records?
Once a juvenile record is sealed in Nevada, it is no longer accessible to the public. However, certain entities such as law enforcement agencies, government agencies, and some employers may still have access in specific circumstances. Sealing a juvenile record can help mitigate the effects of a criminal case, but it’s important to understand who can see it and when. Consulting with an experienced juvenile criminal lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process.
Will my juvenile record affect me or my future?
While a juvenile record is typically sealed, it can still affect a minor's future if not properly handled. Certain situations, such as applying for jobs, scholarships, or immigration status, could potentially bring up a sealed juvenile record.
How much does a juvenile lawyer cost?
The cost of hiring a juvenile criminal lawyer in Nevada varies depending on multiple factors. At Miley Law, we offer affordable and transparent pricing, ensuring that families can access the quality defense they need without the stress of unexpected costs. Contact us for a consultation to discuss your case and get an accurate estimate of fees.
What does a juvenile lawyer do?
A juvenile court lawyer specializes in representing minors who have been charged with criminal offenses. They help navigate the legal system, advocate for reduced charges, negotiate plea deals, and work toward a favorable outcome that minimizes long-term consequences. A juvenile lawyer’s role is to protect the minor’s rights, ensure fair treatment, and strive for the best possible result based on the circumstances of the case.
