Clearwater Juvenile Felony Defense Lawyer

When a child is facing juvenile criminal charges in Clearwater, the consequences can be life-altering. Even a single criminal offense may carry penalties that affect your child’s future for years to come. If your son or daughter has been taken to a juvenile detention center, referred to the juvenile assessment center, or is being investigated by a law enforcement officer, you need an experienced and compassionate juvenile criminal defense attorney on your side—immediately.

At Hersem Law, our Clearwater juvenile felony defense lawyer helps families navigate Florida’s complex juvenile justice system. We defend children and teens facing everything from theft crimes and drug possession to aggravated assault, domestic violence, and other felony offenses. Our goal is to protect your child’s rights, their freedom, and their future.

Understanding Juvenile Felony Charges in Clearwater

In Clearwater, Florida, a minor can be charged with a criminal offense for actions that may not seem serious but carry harsh legal consequences. Common juvenile crimes that may result in felony charges include:

• Grand theft or burglary
  
• Drug crimes, including drug possession and drug trafficking
  
• Assault or violent crimes such as aggravated child abuse
  
• Sexual battery
  
• Use of a weapon or threat of serious bodily injury
  

Florida law allows prosecutors from the state attorney’s office to pursue these cases in adult court under certain circumstances, especially if the alleged offense is violent or if the juvenile has a history of repeat delinquent acts. That makes early legal representation from a skilled criminal defense attorney absolutely critical.

Juvenile Court vs. Adult Court in Pinellas County

The juvenile court system in Pinellas County, part of Florida’s Sixth Judicial Circuit, is different from the adult system. It focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment. However, some serious charges may be “direct filed” into adult court, where minors can face the same penalties as adults—including prison time.

At Hersem Law, we work to keep your child’s case in the juvenile division and push for alternative resolutions like a diversion program, drug treatment, or participation in the juvenile arbitration program. These outcomes can help your child avoid a permanent mark on their criminal record and receive the support they need to move forward.

Key Stages in a Juvenile Felony Case

When a child is arrested in Clearwater, Florida, their case may proceed through several stages:

• Initial investigation by the police or state attorney
  
• Referral to the juvenile assessment center for risk evaluation
  
• Possible placement in secure detention pending the outcome of a detention hearing
  
• Formal charges filed by the state attorney’s office
  
• Court appearances, motions, and court hearings
  
• Final disposition in juvenile court or transfer to adult court
  

Throughout this process, your child may also be monitored by a juvenile probation officer, depending on their detention status. Our role is to guide your family through every step, protecting your child’s rights and minimizing exposure to serious consequences.

Protecting Juvenile Clients Across Clearwater and Pinellas County

Hersem Law is dedicated to helping juvenile offenders and their families achieve the best possible outcome. Our experienced criminal defense attorney will:

• Fight to keep the case in juvenile court
  
• Challenge the prosecution’s evidence
  
• Advocate for reduced charges or dismissal
  
• Pursue alternatives such as diversion or rehabilitation
  
• Provide strong, compassionate legal counsel to families during a difficult time
  

We serve clients throughout Clearwater, Florida, as well as nearby areas including New Port Richey, Port Richey, and greater Pinellas County.

Why Choose Hersem Law for Juvenile Defense?

Our criminal defense lawyers have handled countless cases involving minors and the juvenile justice system. We understand the emotional toll these charges place on a family and the legal complexity involved in defending young clients. Our team includes:

• An experienced defense attorney who understands Florida’s criminal law and juvenile procedures
  
• A compassionate approach tailored to the needs of the child and their family
  
• Knowledge of diversionary programs, court alternatives, and sentencing mitigation
  
• A proven track record in defending juvenile delinquency cases, including those involving serious criminal charges
  

We are here to guide you through the entire process and provide the effective, reliable representation you and your child deserve.

Learn more about Clearwater Juvenile Felony Defense Lawyer. Call Hersem Law at 813-251-7291 (Tampa) or 727-384-4357 (Clearwater) to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.

Clearwater Juvenile Felony Defense FAQs

Can a juvenile be tried as an adult in Clearwater, Florida?
Yes. Under Florida law, the state attorney’s office can transfer certain juvenile criminal charges to adult court, especially for felony offenses or repeat offenders.

What happens after a juvenile is arrested in Pinellas County?
The child is typically taken to a juvenile assessment center for evaluation. Depending on risk level, they may be released or sent to a juvenile detention center pending a detention hearing.

What penalties can juveniles face for felony charges?
Penalties range from probation and placement in a juvenile detention center to incarceration in adult prison if tried in adult court. Alternatives like diversion or rehabilitation may be possible.

How can a juvenile defense attorney help my child’s case?
A skilled juvenile criminal defense attorney can fight to keep the case in juvenile court, negotiate with the state attorney, and pursue alternatives like a diversion program to avoid long-term damage.

Does my child need a private criminal defense attorney?
Hiring a private criminal defense attorney ensures your child gets personalized attention, detailed case analysis, and an advocate who will fight for the best outcome in juvenile court or adult court.