Charleston Criminal Defense Attorney - Juveniles

In South Carolina there is a separate court system for juveniles.  One is considered a juvenile defendant if he or she is under the age of seventeen (17).  Our juvenile court system is very different from the adult system.

Detention Hearing:

Juveniles do not have a constitutional right to a bond hearing.  Once a child is taken into the custody of DJJ, a Detention Hearing must be held within forty eight (48) hours. The Detention Hearing is a combination of a Bond Hearing and a Preliminary Hearing regarding the facts of the case.  There is a very limited time to prepare for these Hearings.  We gather the Petition, police reports, interview the client at DJJ, speak with parents and guardians and discuss with the Juvenile Prosecutor their intentions regarding detention.   If we can, when appropriate, we will explore the alternatives to detention, such as home confinement or a treatment facility.   We will also discuss with DJJ staff regarding their recommendations for the child.   Please contact our office immediately so that we may begin investigating your child’s matter.  Often times with the input of the parents, we can craft a specific plan that will guide the juvenile into a treatment plan they may have previously resisted.

Trials in juvenile court proceedings are called adjudications and are non-jury. The overriding purpose of the juvenile system is to rehabilitate youthful offenders and give them the structure needed to be successful.  A juvenile’s record may be sealed or destroyed depending on the type of charge. Once sealed, the minor's records may not be opened for inspection unless ordered by the court. There are several ways to defend your case, and if appropriate, can include diversionary programs offering a second chance. Programs such as pre-Trial Intervention (PTI), community service, paying restitution, and counseling once successfully completed will result in your charges being dismissed.