Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lansing MI

Assault charges are common among teenagers, often stemming from school fights, arguments that escalate, or domestic situations. Michigan law defines assault as an intentional threat or attempt to harm someone, while battery involves actual physical contact. These charges range from misdemeanors to serious felonies depending on whether weapons were involved or how severe the injuries were. We frequently see these charges arise from self-defense situations where the juvenile was actually the victim but ended up being arrested. Our defense strategy examines whether the prosecution can prove intent, explores self-defense claims, and investigates whether the alleged victim provoked the incident. 

Marijuana possession remains illegal for minors in Michigan despite adult legalization. We defend juveniles charged with possession of marijuana, controlled substances like prescription pills taken from parents, possession with intent to distribute, and being present where drugs are found. Many juvenile drug cases involve search and seizure issues, police searching lockers, cars, or bedrooms without proper legal authority. We aggressively challenge illegal searches and push for diversion programs that keep drug charges off permanent records. Learn more about our drug crime defense services. 

Retail fraud, commonly called shoplifting, is one of the most frequent juvenile charges in Lansing. These cases often involve teenagers making impulsive decisions at malls or stores. Michigan divides retail fraud into degrees based on the value of items taken. First-degree retail fraud involves merchandise worth $1,000 or more and is a felony. Second-degree involves $200-$999 and is a misdemeanor. Third-degree involves items under $200. Beyond shoplifting, we defend juveniles accused of theft from schools, theft from other students, stealing from employers, and taking property from family members. Many of these cases can be resolved through restitution and diversion programs. Our theft crime defense page provides additional information.

Michigan has a zero-tolerance law for underage drinking and driving. Any detectable amount of alcohol in a driver under 21 can result in charges. We defend juveniles facing Operating While Intoxicated charges, Minor in Possession violations, reckless driving charges, driving without a valid license, and hit and run allegations. These cases threaten a young person’s ability to drive to school or work, and convictions create insurance nightmares for families. We challenge breathalyzer results, examine whether traffic stops were legal, and negotiate for reduced charges that minimize license consequences. Visit our DUI defense page and reckless driving page for more details. 

Sex crime allegations against juveniles are particularly serious and require immediate, experienced legal intervention. These cases often involve sexting between teenagers, inappropriate touching allegations, statutory rape charges, or sexual assault accusations. Michigan’s sex offender registration requirements can apply to juveniles in some cases, creating lifelong consequences. False accusations are common in these cases, especially during custody disputes or after relationship breakups. We conduct thorough investigations, retain expert witnesses when needed, and fight aggressively to protect young people from being labeled as sex offenders. Our sexual assault defense services page has additional information.

Gun crime charges against juveniles have increased in recent years. We defend minors accused of possessing firearms at school, carrying concealed weapons, possession of firearms by minors, and felony firearm charges. Michigan law prohibits anyone under 18 from possessing a handgun except under specific circumstances like hunting with supervision. Schools have zero-tolerance policies that result in criminal charges even when juveniles didn’t intend harm. We examine whether the juvenile knew the weapon was present, challenge constructive possession theories, and negotiate for outcomes that avoid permanent felony convictions. See our gun crimes defense page for more information. 

Burglary charges often arise when juveniles enter abandoned buildings, go into unlocked cars, or participate in break-ins with older teenagers. Michigan law defines breaking and entering as entering a building without permission with intent to commit a crime inside. These are felony charges that carry serious consequences. We defend juveniles accused of home invasion, breaking and entering businesses or schools, entering without breaking, and unlawful entry charges. Many of these cases involve peer pressure situations where your child was present but didn’t actually commit the offense. Our unlawful entry defense services can help. 

Robbery involves taking property from someone by force or threat of force. When juveniles are accused of robbery, prosecutors often charge them as adults due to the serious nature of the offense. We handle armed robbery allegations, unarmed robbery charges, carjacking cases, and purse snatching incidents. These cases require immediate intervention because prosecutors move quickly to transfer juveniles to adult court. We fight waiver motions aggressively and build defenses based on mistaken identity, false accusations, and lack of intent.  

We meet with you and your child within hours of contact to understand what happened, review any charges or allegations, and advise on immediate steps to protect rights. This consultation is completely confidential. 

We immediately begin investigating the case by interviewing witnesses who support your child’s version of events, obtaining surveillance footage before it’s deleted, examining police reports for inconsistencies, and consulting with experts when needed.

Many juvenile arrests involve constitutional violations. We file motions to suppress evidence obtained through illegal searches, challenge statements taken without proper Miranda warnings, and contest arrests made without probable cause.

When cases proceed to trial or adjudication hearings, we present compelling defenses, cross-examine prosecution witnesses effectively, introduce evidence supporting your child’s innocence, and argue persuasively for minimal consequences.

After disposition, we advocate for early termination of probation, file motions to seal or expunge records, and help families comply with court orders to avoid violations. 

The Juvenile Code (MCL 712A.1 et seq) governs how juvenile cases are handled in Michigan. This law establishes that juvenile courts have jurisdiction over minors under 17 who violate criminal laws or local ordinances. The stated purpose is to provide care, guidance, and control to juveniles while promoting public safety. 

Michigan law presumes that juveniles under 17 should be handled in juvenile court where rehabilitation is the focus. However, MCL 712A.2d allows prosecutors to automatically charge juveniles as adults for certain serious offenses. MCL 712A.2a gives prosecutors discretion to “designate” cases, allowing them to impose adult sentences even in juvenile court proceedings. 

Young people accused of crimes maintain the same constitutional rights as adults, including the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment, the right to legal representation, protection against illegal searches and seizures, the right to confront accusers and cross-examine witnesses, the right to present a defense and call witnesses, and protection against double jeopardy. 

However, the Supreme Court has recognized that juveniles have diminished culpability compared to adults. In several landmark cases, courts have held that juveniles are less mature and more susceptible to peer pressure, their character is not fully formed, and they have greater capacity for rehabilitation. These principles inform our defense strategies and sentencing arguments. 

Lack of Intent – Many crimes require proof that the defendant intended to commit the offense. Juveniles often act impulsively without criminal intent. We demonstrate that your child lacked the mental state required for conviction.

Mistaken Identity – Eyewitness identifications are notoriously unreliable, especially when witnesses are identifying teenagers who may look similar. We challenge identification procedures and present alibi evidence.

Self-Defense or Defense of Others – Michigan law allows use of reasonable force to protect yourself or others from harm. We present evidence that your child acted in self-defense, not as the aggressor.

False Accusations – Teenagers sometimes fabricate allegations out of revenge, jealousy, or to deflect blame from themselves. We investigate motives to lie and expose inconsistencies in accusers’ stories.

Illegal Search and Seizure – Police must follow constitutional rules when searching juveniles, their belongings, or their spaces. We file motions to suppress evidence obtained through illegal searches of school lockers without reasonable suspicion, car searches without probable cause, bedroom searches without warrants or parental consent, and cell phone searches without proper authorization.

Violations of Miranda Rights – Police must read Miranda warnings before custodial interrogation. We challenge statements taken when juveniles weren’t properly advised of their rights, were questioned after invoking the right to remain silent or counsel, or were subjected to coercive interrogation tactics.

Insufficient Evidence – The prosecution must prove every element of the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt. We identify weaknesses in the evidence and argue for dismissal or acquittal when proof is insufficient.

Your child has an absolute right not to speak with police, school administrators, or other authorities investigating alleged criminal activity. This right applies even before arrest. Teach your child to politely say, “I want to remain silent and speak with my lawyer.” Police may tell your child that cooperation will help or that remaining silent makes them look guilty. These are tactics. Silence cannot be used as evidence of guilt. 

Juveniles have the right to legal representation during questioning and at all court proceedings. Once your child invokes this right, police must stop questioning. Never waive this right or allow your child to speak with investigators without an attorney present, even if police promise leniency. 

The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches. Police generally need a warrant, probable cause, or voluntary consent to search. Your child can refuse to consent to searches of their person, belongings, room, car, or phone. School officials have broader search authority than police but still need reasonable suspicion. We challenge searches that violate constitutional protections. 

Michigan law requires police to make reasonable efforts to notify parents when a juvenile is taken into custody. You have the right to be present during questioning of your child. 

Courts recognize that juveniles are more vulnerable to coercive police tactics than adults. Confessions obtained through threats, promises of leniency, or lengthy interrogations may be challenged as involuntary. 

No, absolutely not. Your child should invoke their right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.  

Police may tell you that cooperation will help or that your child isn’t in trouble yet, but statements made during questioning are used against juveniles in court. Even innocent explanations can be twisted to support charges. Politely but firmly tell officers that your child will not answer questions without legal counsel present.  

Call Monument Legal immediately for emergency representation. We’ll protect your child’s rights from the first moment of police contact. 

Detention depends on the offense severity, your child’s age and prior record, and whether the case stays in juvenile court or gets transferred to adult court.  

Most first-time juvenile offenders in Michigan are released to parents pending court proceedings. For serious charges, juveniles may be held in juvenile detention facilities pending trial. If adjudicated in juvenile court, most dispositions involve probation, community service, and counseling rather than long-term detention.  

However, serious offenses can result in commitment to juvenile facilities until age 21. When juveniles are charged as adults, they face the same incarceration risks as adult defendants, including prison time. An experienced Lansing juvenile defense attorney works to keep your child out of detention and fights charges aggressively. 

Timelines vary based on case complexity and whether your child is charged in juvenile or adult court. Simple misdemeanor cases in juvenile court often resolve within two to four months. More serious cases involving felony charges may take six months to a year or longer.  

Cases where prosecutors seek to charge the juvenile as an adult involve additional hearings and can extend the process. The initial stages move quickly, with preliminary hearings typically scheduled within two to three weeks of charges being filed. This is why immediate legal representation matters.  

Early intervention by Monument Legal can expedite favorable resolutions through diversion programs or negotiated plea agreements. 

Yes, many juvenile cases result in dismissed or reduced charges.  

Dismissal may occur when evidence is insufficient to prove the charges, police violated constitutional rights during investigation or arrest, witnesses recant or become unavailable, or the prosecution offers diversion in exchange for completion of programs. Charge reduction happens through skilled negotiation with prosecutors, presentation of mitigating factors like your child’s age and lack of prior record, and demonstrating your child’s acceptance of responsibility and commitment to rehabilitation.  

Monument Legal has achieved numerous favorable outcomes for juvenile clients in Lansing, including complete dismissals, reduction from felonies to misdemeanors, and diversion agreements that avoid any formal adjudication. Every case is unique, but early intervention by an experienced juvenile criminal defense lawyer significantly improves the chances of a positive outcome. 

The first court appearance in a juvenile case is typically a preliminary hearing or arraignment. At this hearing, the judge will inform your child of the charges, explain constitutional rights, determine whether your child should remain in detention or be released to parents, and set conditions of release if applicable.  

Your child will not plead guilty or admit responsibility at this first appearance. Having an attorney present is crucial. We’ll advocate for your child’s release to your custody, argue against restrictive bond conditions, and begin negotiating with prosecutors immediately.  

The preliminary hearing sets the tone for the entire case, and strong advocacy at this stage demonstrates to prosecutors and the judge that your child is represented by experienced counsel who will fight every issue. 

Juvenile adjudications create records, but they differ from adult criminal convictions. Under Public Act 362, juvenile records are now strictly confidential and nonpublic by default.  

However, they can affect college applications, financial aid, professional licensing, and employment. The good news is that Michigan law provides mechanisms to seal or expunge juvenile records. Thanks to the “Clean Slate for Kids” law (MCL 712A.18t), most juvenile adjudications are now automatically expunged two years after the court ends its supervision or when the individual turns 18, whichever is later. Many adjudications can be set aside once the juvenile completes probation and demonstrates rehabilitation. MCL 712A.18e allows juveniles to petition for expungement of certain records.  

Monument Legal helps families navigate the expungement process to ensure that youthful mistakes don’t follow your child forever. The sooner we get involved in your case, the better we can position your child for expungement down the road. Visit our expungement page to learn more about clearing juvenile records.  

No, never enter a plea without consulting an experienced juvenile defense attorney first. Even when the evidence seems overwhelming, skilled legal representation can achieve better outcomes through negotiated plea agreements, diversion programs, or charge reductions.  

Pleading guilty without legal counsel means missing opportunities for case dismissal based on constitutional violations, accepting harsher penalties than necessary, and waiving important appellate rights. Many families assume that cooperation and accepting responsibility will earn leniency, but prosecutors and judges expect proper legal representation.  

An attorney can negotiate outcomes that show acceptance of responsibility while protecting your child’s future. Call Monument Legal before your child enters any plea. We offer free consultations and can quickly assess whether pleading guilty is truly in your child’s best interest. 

Yes, absolutely. Juvenile cases involve complex legal procedures, constitutional protections, and long-term consequences that families cannot navigate alone.  

An experienced Michigan juvenile criminal defense lawyer provides critical advantages including protection of constitutional rights during investigation and questioning, negotiation for diversion programs and reduced charges, filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, fighting prosecutorial attempts to charge your child as an adult, presenting compelling mitigation evidence at disposition hearings, and positioning your child for future expungement.  

Public defenders are overworked and may not have time to give your case the attention it deserves. Monument Legal limits caseloads to ensure personalized attention for every client. The investment in private counsel pays dividends in better case outcomes and protected futures. 

Yes, Michigan law allows juveniles to be prosecuted in adult criminal court under certain circumstances. Automatic waiver provisions require adult prosecution for certain serious offenses committed by juveniles 14 and older, including murder, armed robbery, carjacking, and first-degree criminal sexual conduct.  

Additionally, prosecutors have discretionary authority to “designate” cases, meaning they can request that juveniles receive adult sentences even when cases remain in juvenile court. Designation hearings consider factors like the seriousness of the offense, the juvenile’s age and maturity, prior record, and prospects for rehabilitation. Being charged as an adult exposes juveniles to adult penalties including years or decades in prison, permanent criminal records, and lifetime collateral consequences. Fighting waiver and designation motions requires immediate, aggressive advocacy.  

Monument Legal has successfully kept numerous cases in juvenile court, protecting young people from adult consequences. 

Diversion programs allow juveniles to avoid formal court proceedings by completing community service, counseling, educational programs, and restitution. Successful completion results in charges being dismissed.  

Michigan offers several diversion options including informal adjustment where the prosecutor agrees to hold charges in abeyance while the juvenile completes requirements, consent calendar programs involving court-supervised diversion, and teen court where peer juries determine appropriate consequences. Eligibility depends on factors like the offense type and severity, your child’s age and prior record, willingness to accept responsibility, and family support and stability. First-time offenders charged with misdemeanors or low-level felonies are often good candidates for diversion.  

Monument Legal advocates aggressively for diversion placement, working with prosecutors and probation officers to demonstrate that your child deserves a second chance outside the formal court system.