Finding out that your child is facing criminal charges is one of the most difficult moments a parent can experience. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, a mistake, or something more serious, navigating the juvenile justice system in Florida can be confusing, stressful, and emotionally overwhelming.
If you’re unsure of what steps to take—or what this could mean for your child’s future—you’re not alone. Florida’s juvenile laws are different from adult laws in many ways. The goal is often rehabilitation, but the path to resolution depends heavily on how parents respond early in the process.
This guide will walk you through the basics of juvenile criminal charges in Florida, what parents should expect, and the decisions that can make a big difference in the outcome.
Need Local Legal Guidance?
If you’re facing criminal charges or seeking legal advice in the Fort Pierce area, having support from someone who understands the local court system can make all the difference:
Address: 130 S Indian River Dr, Suite 202, Office 218, Fort Pierce, FL 34950
Call: (772) 828-1143
Email: info@jordizaragoza.com
How Florida Defines Juvenile Offenders
In Florida, a juvenile is anyone under the age of 18 who is accused of committing a criminal offense. These cases are generally handled in juvenile court, which operates with a different philosophy than the adult system—focusing more on rehabilitation than punishment.
However, this doesn’t mean the charges are minor. Juvenile offenses can still result in:
- Detention (juvenile jail)
- Probation or house arrest
- Mandatory counseling or treatment programs
- Long-term records that impact college, military, or employment options
Common Juvenile Offenses in Florida
Juvenile charges can range from minor infractions to very serious crimes. Some of the more common offenses include:
- Theft and shoplifting
- Assault or battery
- Underage drinking or drug possession
- Vandalism or criminal mischief
- Disorderly conduct or resisting arrest
- Cyberbullying or threats made online
- Weapons offenses
Even seemingly minor cases can have larger consequences—especially if the child has prior offenses or the case gets transferred to adult court.
What Happens After a Juvenile Arrest?
If a juvenile is arrested, they may be taken to a Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC) or detention facility. Here’s a general breakdown of what follows:
1. Detention Hearing
Within 24 hours, the child appears before a judge to determine if they will be released to a parent/guardian or remain in custody.
2. Intake and Assessment
A Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) officer evaluates the case and may recommend alternatives like diversion, probation, or formal court proceedings.
3. Formal Charges or Diversion
If the case proceeds, the State Attorney can choose to file formal charges or place the youth in a diversion program (a path that allows charges to be dropped if completed successfully).
4. Adjudicatory Hearing
Similar to a trial but without a jury—here, a judge determines guilt and imposes consequences if needed.
Can a Juvenile Be Tried as an Adult in Florida?
Yes. Under certain circumstances, a juvenile can be transferred to adult court—this is known as “direct file”. This usually happens when:
- The crime is violent (armed robbery, aggravated battery, etc.)
- The youth is 16 or 17 years old
- There are previous felony charges on record
If this happens, the child will face adult penalties, including the possibility of prison. That’s why early legal intervention is so critical in serious juvenile cases.
Long-Term Consequences of a Juvenile Record
Many parents assume juvenile records automatically disappear when a child turns 18. This isn’t always true.
Juvenile offenses can:
- Be used against them in future criminal cases
- Affect college admissions or scholarships
- Block opportunities for military service
- Disqualify them from professional licenses
In some cases, the record may be eligible for sealing or expungement, but eligibility depends on how the case is resolved.
Alternatives to Juvenile Conviction
Florida offers several alternatives that can help a young person avoid a conviction or a permanent record, including:
✅ Diversion Programs
These may include community service, counseling, restitution, or educational workshops. Completion often leads to dismissal of charges.
✅ Teen Court or Civil Citations
For first-time, non-violent offenses, youth may appear before a peer jury or receive a citation instead of an arrest.
✅ Withhold of Adjudication
In some cases, the judge may choose not to formally convict the juvenile, leaving the door open for future expungement.
Each of these options depends on the child’s background, the nature of the offense, and the decisions made early in the process.
How Parents Can Help
Your role as a parent is crucial. Here are ways you can help protect your child’s rights and future:
- Be present and supportive during all legal proceedings
- Keep documentation of the incident, including names, witnesses, and dates
- Avoid allowing your child to speak to police without understanding their rights
- Seek guidance early, even before a formal charge is filed
A criminal charge doesn’t have to define your child’s future—but ignoring the problem or hoping it “goes away” can make things worse.
Final Thoughts
When your child is accused of a crime in Florida, it’s normal to feel fear, confusion, and frustration. But this situation, while serious, is not hopeless. The decisions you make early on—what you say, how you respond, and whether you explore legal guidance—can shape the rest of the process.
Understanding how juvenile charges work and taking action quickly gives your child the best chance at moving forward with minimal lasting damage. Every case is different, and sometimes, the most helpful step is simply learning your options before deciding what to do next.
FAQs
Q1: Will my child’s juvenile record automatically be sealed at 18 in Florida?
Not always. Some records are eligible for automatic sealing, but not all. It depends on the outcome of the case, the type of offense, and whether the juvenile committed further offenses. You may need to request expungement through a formal process.
Q2: Can a juvenile be sentenced to jail in Florida?
Yes. If a judge finds the juvenile delinquent, they may be sentenced to a juvenile detention facility. However, alternatives like probation or diversion are often prioritized—especially for first-time or low-level offenses.
Q3: What should I do first if my child is arrested?
- Stay calm and gather all the facts
- Avoid allowing your child to speak without guidance
- Make sure they are represented at the detention hearing
- Consider discussing the case with someone who understands Florida’s juvenile laws
Need Local Legal Guidance?
If you’re facing criminal charges or seeking legal advice in the Fort Pierce area, having support from someone who understands the local court system can make all the difference:Address: 130 S Indian River Dr, Suite 202, Office 218, Fort Pierce, FL 34950
Call: (772) 828-1143
Email: info@jordizaragoza.com