Juvenile Offenses Lawyer Des Moines, IA
Defense for Juvenile Cases in Iowa
Young people make errors in judgment – it is part of the growing process. When those errors lead to a run-in with the law, there may be immediate and long-term consequences. Our Iowa juvenile crimes lawyers at Branstad & Olson are here to help you protect your child’s rights through every stage of the legal process.
We care about your child’s best interests. Call (515) 329-3100 for a free consultation to discuss your next course of action with our Des Moines juvenile crime attorneys.
Delinquency Cases in IA
In Iowa, the juvenile court has jurisdiction over cases involving minors. In the State of Iowa, most minors accused of delinquent acts will have their case heard by the juvenile court, rather than the adult criminal court. However, in certain circumstances, a minor may be tried as an adult. For example, youths over 16 years of age or youths accused of committing a violent felony, such as sexual assault, manslaughter, or murder, may be tried as an adult if certain requirements are met.
A delinquency case can involve several stages, including:
- Intake (investigation)
- Adjudication hearing (determination of responsibility)
- Disposition hearing (determination of consequence)
Delinquency Petitions & Informal Adjustments in Iowa
At the conclusion of intake, a juvenile court officer who conducts the investigation will determine whether a delinquency petition should be filed or if the case should be resolved through informal adjustment.
Informal adjustment is the process of handling a juvenile delinquency matter outside of court. Generally, it involves the minor acknowledging responsibility for the act, and the minor and their parents agreeing to take certain actions. These could include working with a juvenile court officer, completing community service, paying victim restitution, or obtaining mental health or substance use treatment. Successful complete of an informal adjustment will end a case without any findings of responsibility or other consequences for the juvenile.
Call Our Des Moines Juvenile Crime Lawyers
When your child is accused of a delinquent act, you may have many questions and few answers. Branstad & Olson is here to provide representation for your child’s situation.
Contact our Des Moines juvenile crimes attorneys at (515) 329-3100.
-
"I found her to be one of the top criminal lawyers in the state."
I hired Christine during after an exhausting search of attorneys at law to handle my case. I found her to be one of the top criminal lawyers in the state. After a brief consultation concerning the merits of my case, she assured me that the charges against me could be dismissed. She has been informative, accessible, and straightforward in our dealings - the kind of assets you want in an attorney.- Darryl -
"I am so thankful that I made this call."
Prompt, attentive and willing to go beyond the scope of my expectations. She listened, and then with care proceeded to explain the possible outcomes - I am so thankful that I made this call.- Mike
Our Settlements & Verdicts
Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.
-
Reversed and Remanded Appeal - Administrative
-
Reversed and Remanded Suppression Leading to Dismissal
-
Not Guilty – Jury Trial Assault with Intent to Commit Sexual Abuse
-
Not Guilty– Jury Trial Murder 1st Degree
-
Not Guilty - Trial Vehicular Homicide
-
Not Guilty– Jury Trial Murder 1st Degree