Toms River Juvenile Defense Attorney
As a parent, few things are more distressing than seeing your child face criminal charges for a juvenile criminal offense. At William Proetta Criminal Law, our Toms River juvenile defense attorney understands the fear and uncertainty you and your family are experiencing right now.
We know that children sometimes make mistakes or exercise poor judgment, and these errors can lead to serious legal consequences. While minors do not typically face the same penalties as adults, a guilty verdict could still have serious implications for your child’s future.
If your child has been charged with an offense in Toms River, our experienced juvenile criminal defense lawyer is here to guide you through this challenging time. Our team combines wide-ranging legal knowledge with compassion, providing the support and advocacy your family needs now. Our goal is to protect your child’s rights, explore all available options, and fight for the best possible outcome for their future.
Contact William Proetta Criminal Law today for a free, confidential consultation, and get a defense attorney who has your back.
Reasons to Get Help from Our NJ Juvenile Law Attorney
When your child is facing criminal charges in Toms River, having a skilled juvenile defense lawyer by your side can make a profound difference in both the ultimate outcome of the case and your family’s stress levels during the process. William Proetta Criminal Law can offer:
- Extensive experience with the juvenile justice system – Our dedicated juvenile defense lawyer has broad experience handling juvenile criminal offenses in Toms River, Ocean County, and throughout New Jersey. We understand the nuances of the juvenile court system and how it differs from adult criminal proceedings.
- Assertive protection of your child’s rights – We work tirelessly to protect your child’s rights throughout their case, from initial questioning to court hearings.
- Exploration of alternative sentencing options – Our juvenile law attorney is well-versed in the various diversion programs and alternative sentencing options available for juvenile offenders. We will work to find solutions that avoid the harshest penalties and protect your child’s future.
- Compassionate support – We understand how stressful this situation is for your entire family. Our team provides legal representation as well as emotional support and guidance throughout the process.
But don’t just take our word for it. Check out what our satisfied former clients are saying about us. For example, Dan Adrian writes, “Mr. William Proetta is the attorney that you want representing you, plain and simple. My experience with him was incredible and I was impressed by how well he both represented and communicated with me.”
Types of Juvenile Defense Cases We Handle in Toms River
At William Proetta Criminal Law, our law offices have experience handling a wide array of charges related to juvenile offenses in Ocean County, including:
- Drug offenses – From possession of small amounts of marijuana to more serious drug charges, we can protect your child in the face of youthful drug-related charges.
- Underage drinking and underage DWI – We handle cases involving alcohol possession, consumption, and related offenses like driving under the influence.
- Theft and shoplifting – We are prepared to defend against charges stemming from minor shoplifting incidents to more serious theft charges.
- Assault and battery – We defend juveniles accused of physical altercations, including school fights.
- Vandalism and criminal mischief – Our team handles cases involving property damage, graffiti, and other acts of vandalism.
- Sexual offenses – We provide sensitive, thorough defense for juveniles facing serious charges like sexual assault or distribution of explicit images.
- Disorderly conduct – From public disturbances to school-related incidents, we can defend your child against charges stemming from public nuisances.
- Computer crimes – We handle cases involving cyberbullying, hacking, and other technology-related charges that are becoming increasingly common.
No matter what type of charges your child faces in Ocean County, our experienced juvenile defense lawyer is here to help. We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your child’s case, build a strong defense strategy, and fight to protect their rights and future.
Possible Sentences for a Juvenile Crime in Toms River
The juvenile justice system in New Jersey aims to rehabilitate rather than punish young offenders. However, the potential consequences of a juvenile conviction can still be significant. Possible sentences may include:
- Probation
- Community service
- Counseling or therapy
- Substance abuse treatment
- Restitution to victims
- Educational or vocational programs
- Placement in a residential treatment facility
- Detention in a juvenile facility
For more serious offenses, juveniles may face:
- Extended detention periods
- Potential transfer to adult court (for those 15 and older, in certain cases)
- Fines
Our Toms River juvenile defense attorney works diligently to secure the most favorable outcome possible, focusing on rehabilitation, preserving your family unit, and minimizing long-term consequences for your child.
What Is the Juvenile Justice Process in NJ?
The juvenile justice process in New Jersey can be complicated, but it generally involves these steps:
- Arrest or complaint filed
- Initial detention hearing (if the juvenile is held in custody)
- Probable cause hearing
- Plea hearing
- Trial (known as an adjudicatory hearing in juvenile court)
- Disposition hearing (sentencing)
Our dedicated Toms River juvenile defense lawyer will be by your side throughout this process, explaining each step and advocating for your child’s best interests.
Can You Expunge a Juvenile Record?
Juvenile records in New Jersey can be expunged in many cases. If successful, the expungement will mean that your child’s conviction should not affect their chances of securing future employment, housing, or higher education opportunities. However, certain serious offenses may not be eligible for expungement. Our firm can help you determine whether you qualify and guide you through the process.
How Our Law Firm Helps Juveniles Facing Criminal Charges
At William Proetta Criminal Law, we provide comprehensive support for juveniles facing charges for criminal offenses in Toms River. We are here to fight for your child’s rights and work toward the best possible outcome for their case.
A juvenile criminal defense attorney at our law firm stands ready to:
- Thoroughly and independently investigate the case
- Develop solid legal strategies based on our investigation
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Represent your child at all court hearings
- Advocate for diversion programs when appropriate
- Protect your child’s rights throughout the legal process
- Clearly communicate with and support your family
We understand the overwhelming fear and uncertainty you and your child are facing. Our juvenile criminal defense lawyer is committed to providing the skilled representation and compassionate support your family needs during this stressful time.
Contact William Proetta Criminal Law today for a free, confidential consultation with our Toms River juvenile defense attorney, and let us start building a robust defense for your child.