Juvenile Criminal Defense

Juvenile criminal defense services for minors facing legal charges in Florida. Our North Miami-based criminal justice attorney defends young clients in juvenile court, helps prevent adult prosecution, and works to protect their future through strategic, compassionate advocacy.

When a minor is arrested or accused of a crime, it’s not just a legal issue—it’s a life-altering event that impacts the child and their entire family. At Reynoso Erickson Trial Law, PA, we understand the fears and questions that arise when your child enters the juvenile justice system. Our priority is to safeguard their future by fighting for the best possible outcome—whether through diversion programs, reduced charges, or keeping the case out of adult court. We treat every young client with dignity and respect while working aggressively to protect their legal rights, their education, and their clean record.

The Juvenile Justice Process in Florida

Florida’s juvenile justice system is separate from the adult system and is designed to rehabilitate rather than punish. Still, minors can face serious penalties if not properly represented. The process often includes:

• Detention Hearing: A judge decides whether the minor should be held in custody or released to a guardian.
• Delinquency Petition: Formal charges are filed detailing the alleged offense.
• Adjudicatory Hearing: Equivalent to a trial, where evidence is presented and guilt is determined.
• Disposition Hearing: Sentencing phase where consequences such as probation or community service may be ordered.

Our attorneys handle each of these steps with care and strategy, working to resolve the case with minimal disruption to your child’s education, health, and emotional well-being.

Common Juvenile Offenses We Defend

Juvenile cases can involve a wide range of allegations, including:

• Theft and shoplifting
• Drug possession or distribution
• Assault, battery, and school fights
• Cyberbullying or sexting
• Criminal mischief or vandalism
• Weapons possession

Many of these offenses result from peer pressure, lack of judgment, or being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Our legal team digs into the full story, providing a defense that includes both legal reasoning and advocacy for rehabilitation when appropriate.

Diversion Programs and Avoiding a Criminal Record

We work aggressively to get eligible minors into Florida’s diversion programs, which offer an alternative to prosecution. These programs typically involve counseling, school attendance, drug testing, or community service. Successful completion can lead to dismissal of the case and preservation of a clean record. If your child qualifies, we handle all paperwork and communication to enroll them and guide them through the process from start to finish. This is one of the most effective tools for preventing a juvenile case from causing long-term harm.

Protecting Against Adult Prosecution

In certain cases, especially those involving weapons, serious violence, or repeat offenses, prosecutors may try to transfer a juvenile case into adult court. This exposes minors to harsher sentences and permanent criminal records. We fight to keep juvenile cases where they belong—within the youth system. Our attorneys file motions, present psychological evaluations, and make legal arguments to demonstrate why the juvenile court is the proper venue. This single decision can define your child’s legal and personal future.

After the Case: Sealing, Expungement, and Life After Juvenile Court

Even if your child completes their case successfully, the record can remain unless you take action. We help families seal or expunge juvenile records when eligible, which prevents them from appearing in background checks for jobs, college, or housing. We also offer guidance on how a juvenile case might affect other areas of life, including immigration, school discipline, and mental health. Our support doesn’t end in the courtroom—we stay with you through the recovery process to ensure your child gets back on track.

Don’t let a youthful mistake define your child’s future. At Reynoso Erickson Trial Law, PA, we’re here to defend, support, and advocate for your family with skill, compassion, and tireless effort. Contact us today for experienced juvenile criminal defense in North Miami—because every child deserves a second chance and a clean slate.