Juvenile Charges

A shoplifting charge against a minor can raise concerns about court hearings and future opportunities. New Jersey handles most juvenile shoplifting cases through the Family Part of the Superior Court. The outcome depends on the value of the goods, the minor's history...

When a teenager gets caught drinking at a party, parents may wonder what happens next and how soon the case will move. New Jersey prohibits anyone under 21 from possessing or consuming alcohol. Police may issue a summons or contact the parents that same night....

A teen who uses a fake ID in New Jersey may face juvenile charges, loss of driving privileges, fines and a juvenile court record. The outcome often depends on the teen's age, the kind of false identification involved and whether the incident also involves purchasing...

A parent who hears that their child is facing juvenile charges will often feel stressed and feel that the child’s entire future is going to be negatively impacted. While it’s true that juvenile charges are serious, they’re much different from adult charges.  In the...

No parent expects the call that their teenager has been placed in juvenile detention. You want to bring your teen home, but you may not know where to start. Understanding how New Jersey courts make release decisions can help you take the right steps to support your...

Juvenile vandalism charges can feel overwhelming for both teens and their families. In New Jersey, these cases often move through the juvenile justice system with goals that differ from adult court. Understanding how defenses work can help you better understand what...

When an officer asks to look inside your backpack, the moment may feel tense. You help yourself when you understand your rights and respond with confidence. A calm and informed approach gives you more control. Your right to decline a search Police may ask to search...

Young people often do not realize how easily words spoken in an interrogation room can shape their future. The law recognizes that minors think and respond differently from adults, yet many teens still talk freely to police without understanding the risks. Teens need...

Stealing a garden gnome statue or covering the neighbor's garage door with graffiti may seem like harmless pranks. However, these activities are considered acts of vandalism and may result in criminal mischief charges being filed against the perpetrator.  When someone...

If you’re a parent to a teenager, one of your biggest concerns is almost certainly their safety and well-being. This may include their social circle. While friendships are crucial for their development, it’s natural to worry about potential negative influences. Drugs,...