Learn about Juvenile Criminal Defense from a Colorado Springs Criminal Defense Lawyer

Some of the most common juvenile crimes are harassment, drug use, vandalism and gang-related violence.  Juvenile crime poses a unique threat to the community and it is the responsibility of society to prevent it before it manifests itself into more devastating consequences. 

Like many other Colorado Springs criminal defense lawyers, I am acutely aware of the risk factors associated with higher incidences of juvenile crime.  Some of the most prevalent risk factors include poverty, the presence of drugs, and violent gangs in a particular community.  Children who live in homes where domestic violence takes place are also more likely to become delinquent, and when you factor in easy access to firearms and increasing violence in movies and video games, it is no surprise that some children are at a greater risk than others for criminal acts. 

While these factors certainly don’t excuse juvenile crime, they do make it obvious how important it is to rehabilitate these troubled youths before they become adults.  State programs in Colorado are focused on doing just that, and so far they have been very successful.  Only when juveniles are exposed to positive influences can they learn to reject negative peer pressure.  Thankfully, action is being taken in this area. 

Recent news out of Denver reports that a bipartisan team of lawmakers are seeking to increase the minimum age at which juveniles can be tried as adults in Colorado.  This legislation, which was introduced by Rep. Clair Levy (D-Boulder) would change the minimum age to 16, thereby preventing 14 and 15 year old defendants from being tried by prosecutors.  As a Colorado Springs criminal defense lawyer specializing in juvenile defense, I am happy to support a move to bring judges back into the process.

The current statutes, which have been in effect since 1993, have been plagued with problems, partially because the state lacks the funding to properly track, treat and house delinquent youth while they await an adult trial.  When a fourteen-year-old is housed in an adult facility, it often requires them to be moved into solitary confinement, sometimes for several months, with very limited access to psychological treatment, education and other services to which they are entitled by law. 

In addition to changing the minimum age, Levy’s bill would also allow more juvenile offenders to get involved with Colorado’s Youthful Offender System and it would allow 16 and 17 year old felony offenders who complete the program to petition the court for a downgraded conviction.  This successful program allows juveniles to spend time in youth oriented facilities instead of an adult penitentiary, while earning time off of their sentences.  It also provides access to GED, job training programs, and mental health care.

To learn more about juvenile criminal defense in Colorado, or for advice on how to help your son or daughter avoid trial as an adult, consult with a Colorado Springs criminal defense attorney at Clawson and Clawson, LLP.