Juvenile Defense Attorneys in Connecticut

Juvenile Defense Attorneys in Connecticut

Connecticut Superior Courts for Juvenile Matters have exclusive jurisdiction over all juveniles that have been accused of committing a crime or a delinquent act. In Connecticut, juvenile delinquency is defined as a person under the age of 18 years old that has violated or attempted to violate any state or federal laws, orders of the Superior Court, or any local or municipal ordinance.

Although all Connecticut criminal statutes apply to both adults and juveniles, in juvenile cases there are different legal procedures that are followed. Learn more about the basic overview of the Connecticut Juvenile process here.

Connecticut Juvenile “JustUs” System

The Connecticut juvenile justice system is purportedly predicated upon the concepts of restorative justice and juvenile rehabilitation while at the same time also protecting the community. The goals are to:

  • Adequately protect the community and juveniles;
  • Provide community based programs and services within the juvenile’s community;
  • Support juveniles within their family home whenever possible;
  • Family involvement with the child’s case management plan;
  • Promote mental health services designed to prevent unlawful behaviors;
  • Increase school attendance and participation; and
  • Provide therapeutic confinement to juveniles who present a danger to themselves or the community.

Often, however, a parent and child will feel that the entire juvenile process is against them and feel isolated, like it just them against the state. Regardless of the goals of the juvenile justice system, hiring the right Connecticut Juvenile Defense Attorney is key.

The Arrest Process: Know Your Child’s Rights!

In most instances, the local police department is often the first point of contact when a juvenile is accused of committing a crime. A police officer will attempt to “help you” as a parent or try to ask your child questions. A police officer may also attempt intimidation tactics to convince you or your child to confess. Do not let your child be intimidated or interrogated by the police department. It is important that both you and your child know your child’s rights if your child is arrested. Police may:

  • Issue a warning;
  • Issue a summons to appear in juvenile court;
  • Make a referral to a community organization;
  • Refer the juvenile to a formal diversion service, such as a Juvenile Review Board (JRB) or another service agency within your community if these options are available; or
  • Make an arrest.

How Can Forte Law Group Help You?

If your son or daughter has been arrested or is about to be arrested, parents are encouraged to contact our firm. We are experienced juvenile defense attorneys and special education lawyers. We understand the juvenile process and how juvenile law draws from many other difference areas of the law including: criminal defense, juvenile court procedures, mental health laws, and educational laws involving disciplinary actions of suspension and expulsion, possible manifestation determination reviews, as well as special education rights.

Call us at 203-257-7999 or schedule a free phone call here.

Forte Law Group represents families that have a child accused of a crime throughout Connecticut, in Fairfield County, Hartford County, Litchfield County, Middlesex County, New London County, Tolland County, and Windham County, including in the following cities and towns:

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