The laws in Nevada when it comes to juveniles are designed to prioritize rehabilitation whenever that’s possible. However, for juveniles who have committed particularly serious offenses or who have repeatedly committed the same offense, there can be some pretty serious penalties, including incarceration. A criminal defense attorney in Reno, NV can help you and your family.
What Are the Penalties for Juvenile Crimes in Nevada?
The bad news first: if a youth is guilty of a particularly serious crime, there’s a good chance they are going to end up incarcerated in a juvenile detention center or a resident treatment facility. But there are some other scenarios.
Alternative Sentencing Options
Some of the options that exist for alternative sentencing include restitution, electronic monitoring, community service, diversion programs, counseling, and probation with conditions. The state also has provisions for juveniles to be assessed and treated for mental health issues, and if a youth is struggling, the court may order this.
Penalties for Status Offenses
A “status offense”under Nevada law is an action that is legal for an adult but illegal for a minor. For example, running away from home is a status offense, as are curfew violations and the possession of alcohol. Status offenses are usually punished just with fines and community service, though in particularly serious cases, there could be detention involved.
Penalties for Parents
Parents and guardians can be held accountable for what their children do under certain circumstances. The law says that if the parent or guardian knew about their child’s behavior and had the ability to control it, then they are liable for any damage the child causes. The state will have to prove the liability of the parents in court, but if the parents are found liable, they can end up with fines, probation, or community service.
Other Things Unique to Juvenile Offenses
There is a separate juvenile justice system, and this means that juveniles are not tried in the same courts as adults. They also do not have the right to a trial by jury and don’t have the same rights regarding bail.
On the other hand, juvenile sentences do tend to be lighter than those imposed on adults and more focused on rehabilitation. Also, the court records of minors are sealed and confidential. The point of this is to protect them from carrying the stigma of their juvenile record into their future, which could limit their opportunities. Criminal records of adults are a matter of public record and can’t go away unless they’re expunged.
Talk With a Criminal Defense Attorney in Reno, NV Now for Help
If your child is being charged with an offense, it’s important to get started quickly on defending them and seeking the best possible outcome. Contact us at the Barber Law Group in Reno, NV today for legal representation. We specialize in juvenile legal defense and know all the options, all the courts, and the best way to help Nevada’s young people preserve their right to a bright future.
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