Houston Juvenile Attorney Andy Nolen Responds: What Is Going to Happen if My Child Is Found Guilty?

Friday, March 20, 2015

Houston Juvenile Attorney Andy Nolen Responds: What Is Going to Happen if My Child Is Found Guilty?

Giddings State School, a reformatory of the Texas Youth

Actually, your child cannot be found guilty because juvenile proceedings are consider civil in nature. Instead, children are said to "have engaged in delinquent conduct" if the jury or judge finds beyond a reasonable doubt that the child committed an offense. This may seem like just semantics but it is a distinction that will benefit your child down the road. This is especially true when your child goes to apply for a job. Most job applications have the question as to whether or not the applicant has been "convicted" of a crime. Because a juvenile has not been convicted, he may legally answer no.

The end result of a disposition hearing if a child is found to have engaged in delinquent conduct can range from a 6 month probation with the child remaining in the home to commitment in the Texas Youth Commission. In some serious felony cases, the child may even face transfer or certification to stand trial as an adult in the criminal district court.

Your Houston Juvenile Attorney can give your more information for your particular case based upon the offense charged and the child's history of conduct.

Houston Juvenile Attorney Andy Nolen has over 22 years experience representing persons accused of committing criminal violations of State and Federal law.

Houston Juvenile Attorney Andy Nolen treats every person they represent as if they were a friend and neighbor. When you call, likely Andy Nolen will answer your call himself. You will be dealing with Attorneys, not secretaries, assistants, or answering machines.

If we can be of any assistance, or you just want to talk about your situation, please call Andy Nolen at 832-480-8951.