Juvenile Offenses

Boston Juvenile Crimes Defense Lawyer

A common misconception is that young people need to be eighteen years old before they can be tried as an adult. In Massachusetts, the age of adulthood is seventeen. A young person under the age of 17 may also be tried in adult court for certain serious crimes, if the Commonwealth elects to indict him or her as a so-called "Youthful Offender."

My main concern for my juvenile clients is for their future. My juvenile clients are just starting out in life -- the last thing they need is to be convicted of a crime as either a juvenile or in adult court. Many of my juvenile clients will be applying to colleges and jobs.  An entry on their juvenile or adult criminal record could hurt their chances for entry and/or advancement.  For example, among the consequences of a juvenile drug conviction is ineligibility for federal student aid for one year.

I represent juveniles in all types of felony and misdemeanor cases, including:

• Malicious destruction of property
• Underage drinking
• Disorderly person
• Disorderly conduct
• Disturbing the peace
• DUI (called OUI in Massachusetts)
• Minor transporting alcohol
• Trespassing
• Shoplifting
• Larceny
• Drug charges
• Assault
• Juvenile sex crimes
• Murder

I recognize that even if I succeed in achieving a satisfactory resolution to a criminal charge for my juvenile client, my client still may face disciplinary hearings in school.  I have appeared with my clients before the judicial affairs boards at Boston University, Northeastern University and Suffolk University.  I have also dealt with many town and city school officials.  I stand ready to handle all aspects of a juvenile's case -- and to ensure that the juvenile's future still remains bright at the end of my representation. 

Free Initial Consultation: Contact Boston juvenile crimes defense lawyer David Yannetti.