Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyer in Memphis

Children and Juveniles

It can be an overwhelming and emotional experience when your child or juvenile (under age 18) is charged with a crime. Many non-violent juvenile cases are settled via non-court adjudication, utilizing counselors. But, more serious cases can result in felony convictions--with your child serving time in juvenile or adult custody. There could also be collateral consequences, like loss of driver's license and other penalties.

When Will a Child Be Charged as an Adult in Tennessee? 

In the state of Tennessee, juvenile offenders could be charged as adults depending based on the severity of the particular offense and other factors that must be evaluated by the court. In general, a juvenile could be tried as an adult if they are sixteen years or older and have committed crimes including first-degree murder, rape, and other offenses involving violence. The decision to charge a child as an adult is ultimately up to the discretion of the court and is always conducted with consideration for the safety of others.

Children and teens make mistakes, but we don't believe their mistakes should plague them for the rest of their lives. Juvenile records are typically sealed from public view, but problems resulting from these records can follow your child throughout their adult life. In these cases, it is critically important that you secure expert representation to protect your child's future.

Our skilled and experienced team of investigators, paralegals, and criminal defense lawyers at the Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm, P.A. are experts at successfully preventing juvenile records, arranging for juvenile release prior to adjudication, and preventing juveniles from being tried as adults. Contact our team of experts to obtain the best possible outcome for your child.