In this article, you will learn about…
- What penalties juveniles face if convicted of a sex crime.
- When a juvenile might be required to register as a sex offender.
- What to look for in an attorney for your minor child.
What Penalties Do Juveniles Face If Convicted Of A Sex Crime In Massachusetts?
The biggest penalty juveniles could face if convicted of a sex crime in Massachusetts is having to be registered on the Sex Offender Registry. This is often life-transforming, because you will be registered as a sex offender for life.
There are also issues of probation. With more serious juvenile convictions, you will see mandatory detention. Depending on their age when the charge starts, if they turn 18 or 19 during their detention, they could be looking at potential incarceration.
Is It A Good Idea For The Parents Of A Defendant Facing A Sex Crime To Talk To The Parents Of An Alleged Victim?
It is never a good idea for the parents of a defendant facing a sex crime to talk to the parents of an alleged victim. No statements should be made about the allegations until you speak to an attorney that understands the situation and the implications of reaching out to the parents of the alleged victim.
Many people think that they can resolve a sex crime allegation of a minor by making a quick phone call to clear up a misunderstanding. This is a terrible idea and, more often than not, it ends up compounding the damage.
Before you speak to anybody, whether the victim, their parents, or even law enforcement, you need to speak to an attorney.
Would A Juvenile Convicted Of A Sex Crime In Massachusetts Have To Register For Life As a Sex Offender In Massachusetts?
Depending on the crime, a juvenile convicted of a sex crime in Massachusetts may have to register for life as a sex offender.
If the conviction is for indecent assault and battery on a person over the age of 14, they would likely not have to be registered as a sex offender for life. If the victim is under the age of 14, it becomes a real possibility that the defendant will have to register as a sex offender.
A juvenile or their parents needs to speak with an attorney as soon as they’re charged with a sex crime. It is a tremendous life-altering event and you want to be certain you are getting the best outcome possible.
Should We Hire A Juvenile Sex Crime Defense Attorney Or Someone Who Handles Only Adult Sex Crime Cases To Defend Our Child?
If your child has been charged with a sex crime, you want to hire an attorney who is familiar with both the juvenile court and the district court. Your attorney should understand the differences in…
- Disposition,
- The discovery process, and
- The mindset of the courts.
The juvenile court is less about punishing a juvenile than it is about reforming or rehabilitating them. That is not the case in district court, which is looking to punish adults for their crimes.
Sex offender registry is in play in both courts, but the level of discretion in juvenile court is much higher than in district court. Depending on the nature of the crime, there are also minimal opportunities for diversion and more opportunities to resolve the case short of trial in a way that ultimately does not hurt the juvenile.
You want an attorney who handles juvenile cases in the juvenile court and is also experienced in jury trials.
For more information on Juvenile Sex Crime Conviction In MA, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (508) 570-3037 or fill out a contact form today.