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Gilbert Juvenile Crimes Attorney

Work With an Experienced Gilbert Juvenile Crimes Lawyer

Juvenile courts in the State of Arizona have jurisdiction over children between the ages of 8 and 18 years old. 'Delinquent' juveniles can be charged with a variety of crimes, including theft, underage drinking, arson, assault, disorderly conduct, shoplifting, gang related activity, sex crimes, rape, DUI, drug charges, criminal damage, kidnapping, burglary, criminal trespass, minor in consumption, minor in possession, and others, and in most cases, will be tried under the jurisdiction of the juvenile courts. In certain and rare circumstances, a juvenile can be prosecuted as an adult if the allegations involve 1st and 2nd degree murder, forcible sexual assault, armed robbery, or certain other violent felony offenses (such as aggravated assault or drive by shooting), if the juvenile is fifteen, sixteen or seventeen years old at the time of the alleged offense. A juvenile can also be tried as an adult at the age of fourteen if the allegations involve a class 1 or class 2 felony, certain class 3 felonies, or certain other felonies involving a 'dangerous' offense, or chronic felony offenders.

The penalties associated with juvenile crimes differ from adults in that juvenile penalties focus on rehabilitation instead of punishment. As opposed to the adult criminal court system, juvenile cases do not go before a jury. A judge will assess all the evidence in the case, hear any testimony, and decide what punishments, if any, should be imposed upon the juvenile. The court procedures are governed by a separate set of rules than adult court and will usually begin with a pre-adjudication hearing (similar to a pre-trial conference in adult court) and may then proceed to an adjudication hearing (similar to a trial in adult court) where the judge may find the juvenile delinquent (as opposed to being found guilty in adult court). If the juvenile is found delinquent, then the case will proceed to disposition (similar to sentencing in adult court) where the judge will impose punishment which can include – juvenile probation (either summary, standard or intensive), juvenile detention (similar to adult jail for short term incarceration) or juvenile department of corrections (similar to adult prison for long term incarceration), diversion programs, community work service, fines, restitution, and treatment classes (such as alcohol, drugs or anger management).

A juvenile record, no matter how insignificant it may seem, can result in serious consequences and it is critical to seek the assistance of a competent and experienced criminal defense attorney who can help guide you through the process of juvenile court proceedings, ensure your child's rights are protected and structure a resolution that may limit the impact on your child and his/her future goals and aspirations. Attorney Trent Buckallew has extensive experience in representing children and their families in the juvenile court system and defending against criminal allegations pending in juvenile court and has a proven track record in successfully resolving countless juvenile criminal matters. With nearly two decades of experience, he has the knowledge and skill to help his clients navigate through the intimidating and often-complicated, juvenile criminal justice system. Mr. Buckallew is a Board Certified Criminal Defense Specialist, meaning that he has significant experience in the area of criminal defense (including juvenile defense) and has completed the rigorous requirements and testing by the Arizona State Board of Legal Specialization for this certification.

If your child or loved one has been charged with any type of juvenile crime in Gilbert, Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Tempe, Scottsdale or any of the surrounding areas, contact the office today for a free consultation to discuss your child's legal options.

The Juvenile Court Centers in Maricopa County are located at:

Juvenile Court Center – Durango
3131 West Durango
Phoenix, Arizona 85009

Juvenile Court Center - Southeast
1810 South Lewis
Mesa, Arizona 85210

Client Reviews
★★★★★
We hired Trent Buckallew to represent our son following a second MIP ticket he received while in college. Mr. Buckallew kept us informed throughout all proceedings and helped us receive the satisfactory outcome of dropped charges in exchange for taking an alcohol awareness class. He was personable, knowledgeable and treated our small case with care and compassion. We would highly recommend him to anyone in need of representation. SR
★★★★★
Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into the case against (client's name). We sincerely appreciate the great job you did. We are praying this is the end of it. Thanks again so very much. This was such a difficult time for our family. LN
★★★★★
I'm finally 100% clear of the problem that started our relationship. I cannot thank you enough for handling my case and expungement. I have a great sense of new beginnings and don't have to let my past affect my future. My freedom is priceless. TM
★★★★★
I appreciate everything you were able to accomplish for my father and will certainly be referring Mr. Buckallew to anyone I know who may be in need of an excellent criminal defense attorney. CM
★★★★★
Trent handled cases for me on two different occasions involving tickets for seat belt violations in commercial vehicles. Very happy with results. All charges dismissed. One case in Flagstaff and one case in Gilbert Court. KF