Switch to ADA Accessible Theme
Close Menu
Fort Myers Criminal Attorney / Fort Myers Juvenile Crimes Attorney

Fort Myers Juvenile Crimes Attorney

Children and teenagers make mistakes; it’s part of growing up and learning to be an adult. However, when a young person is charged with a crime or juvenile offense, the consequences can alter their life and future forever. Our Fort Myers criminal defense law firm is committed to defending the rights of juveniles facing charges in Lee and Collier counties. We have extensive experience handling a wide range of juvenile offenses, and we strive to ensure that your child’s future is not permanently damaged by a youthful mistake. If your child has been detained for a juvenile status offense or arrested for a crime, contact Hanuka & Hollander for immediate assistance from a skilled and dedicated Fort Myers juvenile crimes defense lawyer.

Understanding the Juvenile Justice System in Florida

The juvenile justice system in Florida is designed to address criminal behavior in minors with a focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. However, being charged with a crime as a juvenile can still result in severe penalties, including detention, probation, community service, or mandatory counseling. In some cases, prosecutors may seek to have a juvenile tried as an adult, which could lead to much more severe penalties and long-term consequences.

Hollander & Hanuka Attorneys at Law work to keep your child’s case in the juvenile court system, where penalties are more lenient, and the focus remains on helping your child learn from their mistakes and move forward with their life.

Common Juvenile Crimes in Florida

Juveniles can be charged with a variety of offenses, and our Fort Myers criminal defense team has the experience to handle all types of juvenile cases. Common juvenile crimes we defend include:

  • Theft and shoplifting: Many minors are charged with theft or shoplifting, often for impulsive actions that they do not fully understand. We work to minimize the penalties and protect your child’s record.
  • Drug possession: Juvenile drug offenses, including possession of marijuana, are common. We fight to ensure that one bad decision doesn’t impact your child’s future.
  • Vandalism and property damage: Acts of vandalism or property damage can lead to serious charges, but we work to reduce or dismiss charges whenever possible.
  • Underage drinking and alcohol-related offenses: Underage drinking, DUI, or being in possession of alcohol can carry penalties such as community service, license suspension, or fines. We strive to keep these incidents from affecting your child’s educational or employment opportunities.
  • Assault and battery: Whether a schoolyard fight or a more serious altercation, assault and battery charges can have long-lasting consequences. We provide a strong defense to protect your child’s future.

The Importance of Strong Legal Representation for Juvenile Cases

Even though juvenile court is designed to be rehabilitative, the outcomes of these cases can still have lasting effects. Having a skilled juvenile defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your child’s case. At Hollander & Hanuka, we carefully investigate the charges, negotiate with prosecutors, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your child’s unique situation. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome, whether that means getting charges dismissed or reduced or negotiating for alternative sentencing options like counseling, community service, or probation.

Avoiding a Juvenile Criminal Record

One of the most critical concerns for families dealing with a juvenile crime charge is the impact on their child’s future. A criminal record can limit educational, employment, and housing opportunities well into adulthood. Florida law allows for juvenile records to be sealed or expunged in certain situations, and we work hard to pursue these options for eligible clients. By expunging or sealing a juvenile record, we can help ensure that your child’s mistakes do not follow them into adulthood.

Tried as an Adult: A Critical Turning Point

In certain serious cases, prosecutors may attempt to charge juveniles as adults. This decision can significantly increase the severity of the penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and a permanent criminal record. We fight aggressively to keep cases within the juvenile court system, where the focus is on rehabilitation rather than punishment. If your child is facing the possibility of being tried as an adult, it is critical to have experienced legal representation from attorneys who understand the stakes.

Contact Hollander & Hanuka for Skilled Juvenile Defense in Fort Myers

If your child has been charged with a crime, it is essential to act quickly to protect their rights and future. At Hollander & Hanuka, we provide compassionate, knowledgeable representation to juveniles and their families in Fort Myers and surrounding areas. Our legal team understands the juvenile court system and will work tirelessly to ensure your child receives the best possible outcome. Don’t let one mistake define your child’s future—contact us today at 239-332-3300 for a free consultation to discuss how we can help.