Juvenile crimes include the same types of crimes that are heard in criminal court when committed by an adult or that are specific to their age. The judicial system recognizes that juveniles are young and redeemable. They offer opportunities for juveniles to rehabilitate and avoid permanent consequences in some circumstances.
However, to have the best chance at obtaining a favorable result, it is important that you work with a skilled Cincinnati criminal defense lawyer.
- Overview of Juvenile Crimes Legal Representation in Cincinnati Ohio
- Cincinnati Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorney
- Types of Juvenile Crimes in Ohio
- Sealing Juvenile Records in Ohio
- Rights of a Juvenile Offender in Ohio
- Resources for Juvenile Offenders in Cincinnati Ohio
Cincinnati Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorney
At The Wieczorek Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of youth accused of committing crimes. We encourage you to call us at (513) 317-5987 or complete a contact form to arrange a free and confidential case consultation regarding your child’s case.
How a Cincinnati Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Can Help
A juvenile crimes lawyer can assist with your case by:
- Reviewing the nature of the charges against your child and explaining them to you
- Helping you to navigate the juvenile court system
- Learning about your child and the factors that contributed to the offense
- Arguing for the case to be resolved through alternatives to criminal punishment
- Working to minimize the consequences your child faces
- Seeking counseling and other support resources for you and your child
- Negotiating a sentence for probation or a diversion program
- Advocating for a finding of a discretionary serious youthful offender
We can explain more about how we can help when you contact us for a free and confidential case review.
Types of Juvenile Crimes in Ohio
Juvenile crimes can include any crime that an adult commits. However, there are certain crimes that are more likely to be committed by young people or that they are accused of, which might include:
Drug offenses – When a juvenile in Cincinnati is caught possessing or using illegal drugs, the charge is typically handled through Juvenile Court. Penalties often emphasize rehabilitation, including diversion programs, probation, or treatment, rather than incarceration.
Underage drinking – Underage possession or consumption of alcohol is a common juvenile offense in Ohio. In Cincinnati, first-time offenders may be eligible for alcohol education programs, but repeat offenses can lead to license suspension or detention.
Domestic violence and family crimes – Juvenile domestic violence cases often involve altercations with parents, siblings, or guardians. In Hamilton County, courts focus on family counseling and restorative justice, though serious cases may involve detention or protective orders.
Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs (OVI) – Juveniles charged with OVI in Cincinnati face strict zero-tolerance policies. This type of crime brings extra penalties due to the fact that it was illegal for the Juvenile to be consuming alcohol in the first place. Penalties include license suspension, alcohol education classes, and possible community service, even for a first offense.
Theft – Juvenile theft charges in Cincinnati range from petty theft to more serious property crimes. Courts typically offer diversion or probation for minor first-time offenses, but felony-level theft may result in detention or a delinquency adjudication.
Shoplifting – Shoplifting is one of the most frequent juvenile offenses in Hamilton County. First-time offenders are often diverted into educational or community based programs, but repeat offenses can escalate to formal probation or detention.
Vandalism – Juvenile vandalism includes graffiti, property damage, or school destruction. Cincinnati courts may require restitution, community service, and counseling, especially if the vandalism is extensive or repeat-related.
Weapons crimes – Possession of firearms or other weapons by juveniles is taken seriously in Cincinnati, particularly in school zones. These charges may result in detention, probation, and long-term firearm restrictions, depending on the circumstances.
Sex crimes – Juvenile sex offense cases are handled with confidentiality but carry serious consequences, including registration requirements in some cases. Hamilton County often uses psychological evaluations and specialized programs tailored for youthful offenders.
Burglary – When juveniles commit burglary, the court evaluates intent and circumstances. In Cincinnati, younger offenders may be eligible for diversion, while older teens with prior offenses face stricter supervision or secure placement.
Robbery – Robbery charges against juveniles often result in more formal court involvement due to the use or threat of force. Hamilton County prosecutors may seek serious penalties or even bind-over to adult court for older teens in aggravated cases.
Trespass – Juvenile trespassing, often involving school property or vacant buildings, is treated as a low-level offense. Courts in Cincinnati may respond with community service, curfews, or counseling rather than detention.
Traffic offenses – Juvenile traffic violations, such as speeding or unlicensed driving, are heard in Juvenile Court. In Cincinnati, these often result in fines, license suspension, or driving classes rather than jail time.
The severity of the offense will help determine the possible options for resolving the case.
Sealing Juvenile Records in Ohio
If a juvenile case results in a conviction, consequences can vary but may include:
- Incarceration
- Fines
- Probation
- Mandatory drug and alcohol counseling
- Mandated therapy
Your child may be required to meet other conditions, such as refraining from committing other offenses and attending school. A juvenile court can order records regarding a juvenile case to be sealed when the case is resolved if the case is resolved before filing a complaint, the juvenile completes a diversion program, or the case is dismissed. The juvenile can also apply ONE year after the final disposition of the case to apply to have the records sealed.
Common Terms That Describe Juvenile Offenders in Ohio
A serious youthful offender (“SYO”), under Ohio Revised Code § 2152.02, is a juvenile who is required to have a mandatory serious youthful offender sentencing. This sentence applies to offenders of certain ages or who commit certain acts, though they are not transferred to an adult court for the offense.
Rights of a Juvenile Offender in Ohio
Juvenile offenders do not have the same constitutional protections as adults, and they will not be allowed a jury at their hearing. They are permitted only to present their case to the judge or magistrate. The juvenile is permitted to have an attorney and present evidence and witnesses in their defense. Many times, the court will also appoint a Guardian Ad Litem to ensure the defense attorney is effectively advocating for the youth. Also, juveniles are never convicted…they are deemed adjudicated delinquent. Following the adjudicatory hearing, the judge will hold a dispositional hearing to determine the appropriate sentence for the juvenile offender.
Guardian ad Litems – In juvenile court cases in Cincinnati and throughout Ohio, a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) plays a crucial role in protecting the best interests of a child involved in legal proceedings. Appointed by the court, a GAL is an attorney or trained advocate who conducts an independent investigation into the child’s circumstances, interviewing family members, reviewing records, and observing the child’s environment. Their primary responsibility is not to represent the child’s wishes, but to make recommendations to the judge about what is in the child’s best interest, particularly in cases involving abuse, neglect, custody disputes, or delinquency proceedings. In juvenile delinquency cases, a GAL may be assigned when the child’s home life, mental health, or potential risk of harm are factors influencing the legal outcome. In Hamilton County Juvenile Court, GALs often work alongside defense attorneys, child services, and probation officers, offering the court a broader perspective on the child’s needs beyond just the legal charges.
Resources for Juvenile Offenders in Cincinnati Ohio
Hamilton County Juvenile Court – The main court for delinquency, dependency, custody, and juvenile traffic cases. Includes hearings, probation, and diversion programs. The Court offers access to probation, diversion programs, and rehabilitative services tailored to youth and families involved in the court system.
Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office , Juvenile Division – This division prosecutes offenses committed by minors and collaborates with courts to implement early intervention, diversion, and treatment options for juvenile offenders.
Youth Court (Cincinnati Bar Association – This is a restorative peer justice program where trained high school volunteers serve as jurors, providing sanctions and support to first-time juvenile offenders for minor offenses like shoplifting or curfew violations.
Lighthouse Youth Services – Provides youth-focused services such as in-home therapy, mental health treatment, reentry support, and probation alternatives, often in partnership with Hamilton County Juvenile Court.
Contact a Cincinnati Juvenile Crimes Defense Attorney for Assistance
Your child may be required to meet other conditions, such as refraining from committing other offenses and attending school. A juvenile court can order records regarding a juvenile case to be sealed when the case is resolved if the case is resolved before filing a complaint, the juvenile completes a diversion program, or the case is dismissed. Contact us today to help your child with their charges.
