At Wilson, Reives & Doran, we understand that young people can make mistakes that lead them into the juvenile justice system. When a minor is charged with a crime in North Carolina, the stakes are high—from possible court-ordered programs to long-term effects on educational, career, and personal opportunities. Our dedicated team stands ready to help you and your family navigate these challenging circumstances with compassion, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting your child’s future.
What Is Juvenile Crime?
Definition and Scope
A juvenile crime is any offense committed by a person under the age of 18. While many offenses mirror those in adult criminal law—such as theft, drug possession, and assault—juvenile law also covers “status offenses,” which are infractions illegal only because of the individual’s age (e.g., truancy, curfew violations, underage drinking).
Why It’s Different
North Carolina’s juvenile justice system is built around the idea of rehabilitation rather than punishment. The primary goal is to guide youth toward healthier choices and a productive future, rather than burdening them with a permanent criminal record. This often involves counseling, educational programs, and other interventions suited to a young person’s development.
Examples of Juvenile Crimes
Having an experienced juvenile defense attorney ensures your child’s rights are protected and that they receive the support and advocacy they need.
Understanding the Juvenile Justice System
Different Goals, Different Process
Unlike the adult criminal system, the juvenile system emphasizes rehabilitation. Courts often look for ways to address the issues that contributed to the offense—whether through counseling, education, or other corrective measures—rather than simply imposing punitive sentences.
Confidentiality & Record Sealing
A key benefit of juvenile court is confidentiality, which prevents a minor’s record from becoming widely accessible. However, protections aren’t always automatic or permanent. Our attorneys help guide families through expunction (expungement) or record-sealing processes, safeguarding a young person’s future opportunities.
Will My Child Automatically Be Tried as a Juvenile?
Although most minor offenses are handled in juvenile court, being formally charged as a juvenile is not guaranteed. Judges have the discretion to transfer a minor’s case to adult court in certain circumstances—particularly for repeat offenses or violent crimes. Serious charges such as sexual offenses, crimes involving weapons, or any situation resulting in a loss of life are especially likely to be elevated to adult court.
If you or your child is accused of a serious crime, it’s crucial to contact a juvenile defense attorney as soon as possible. A seasoned lawyer can work to keep the case within the juvenile system, where the focus remains on rehabilitation and protecting your child’s future prospects.
What to Do If Your Child Is Arrested
The period immediately following a child’s arrest can be confusing and highly emotional for everyone involved. As a parent, you may feel a range of emotions—shock, anger, fear—but staying calm is critical. By remaining level-headed, you can take the following essential steps:
- Identify Your Child’s Location
Avoid jumping to conclusions. Find out where your child is being held and make arrangements to go there as soon as possible. - Learn the Facts
Gather as much information as you can about the circumstances. Listen attentively, and request to speak with your child before any formal questioning so you can hear their side of the story. - Contact a Juvenile Defense Attorney
Reach out to a qualified North Carolina juvenile defense lawyer immediately. While your child has specific legal rights, yours may be limited. An attorney can advise whether you’re permitted to be present during questioning and may prevent or halt an interview entirely to protect your child’s interests. - Share What You Know
Give your attorney all pertinent details regarding your child’s situation. Full disclosure helps them formulate the best defense strategy. - Advise Your Child to Remain Silent
Instruct your child not to speak with law enforcement or any other parties until they’ve consulted with an attorney. Refrain from saying anything yourself that might inadvertently incriminate your child. - Gather Supporting Documents
Collect any materials that might help your child’s case—such as certificates, awards, or evidence of community involvement. Solicit reference letters from church leaders, teachers, or others who can attest to your child’s character. - Stay Supportive
Cooperate with your child and the attorney to work toward the best possible outcome. Feeling angry is normal, but it won’t help the case. Instead, focus on assisting your child in moving forward and learning from the situation.
Although an attorney can step in at any point during a juvenile case, it’s best to involve one as soon as your child is arrested. Having legal counsel from the outset ensures your lawyer has time to thoroughly understand the case, preserve your child’s rights, and work on building a solid defense from day one.
What are Possible Penalties?
The juvenile court system differs significantly from the adult court system, including the types of sentences a minor may face after being charged. Depending on the offense and the minor’s history, potential penalties can include:
In some cases, a counselor may decide that formal court intervention is unnecessary and close the case quickly. In more serious situations, however, a minor could face severe consequences—including time in adult jail and the possibility of a permanent criminal record. Our goal at Wilson, Reives & Doran is to aggressively protect your child’s rights and minimize the potential for harsh or lasting penalties.
Contact a Juvenile Defense Lawyer
If your child is facing a juvenile charge in North Carolina, the team at Wilson, Reives & Doran is here to safeguard their rights and advocate for a hopeful future. We’re committed to offering the comprehensive guidance and support your family needs during this challenging time.