St. Petersburg Juvenile Crime Lawyer

A juvenile crime charge can have lasting consequences, even if it seems minor. The legal system treats juvenile offenders differently than adults, but that doesn’t mean the penalties are lenient. Courts in Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay Area take juvenile cases seriously, and some offenses can even result in a minor being charged as an adult. A single mistake should not define a child’s future, and having an experienced attorney can make the difference between a second chance and a criminal record.

At Bastos Defense, we believe that young people deserve strong legal representation, guidance, and a chance to move forward without permanent damage to their future. María Bastos has extensive experience handling juvenile cases and aims to provide each client with the best possible defense. 

Every child deserves a second chance. Contact Bastos Defense online or at (727) 353-6842 to discuss your legal options with an experienced St. Petersburg juvenile defense attorney.

How Does the Juvenile Court Process Work in Florida?

Having a child arrested can be a frightening experience for any parent. Unlike adults, juveniles go through a different legal process that focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment. When a minor is taken into custody, they are usually sent to a Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC) instead of a regular jail. A probation officer evaluates their case to decide if they can go home with their parents or need to stay in a juvenile detention facility for a short period. Unlike adults, juveniles don’t have the option to post bail, so this decision is made based on their charges and risk level.

Once the case moves forward, a prosecutor reviews the situation and decides what happens next. In some cases, the minor may be eligible for a diversion program, such as community service or counseling, which helps them avoid a criminal record. If the case proceeds to court, there is no jury. A judge reviews the evidence and decides the outcome. Sentencing is usually focused on rehabilitation, meaning the child might receive probation, counseling, or placement in a juvenile program instead of being locked up in a detention center.

For serious crimes, prosecutors may try to charge the minor as an adult, which could lead to harsher punishments and even prison time. Florida allows minors as young as 14 to be transferred to adult court under certain circumstances. This is why having a juvenile defense attorney is so important. The right legal representation can help keep the case in juvenile court, reduce penalties, or even get charges dropped, giving the child a second chance to move forward without a criminal record.

How a Lawyer Can Challenge the Charges Against Your Child

Hearing that your child has been arrested can be overwhelming, and figuring out what to do next can feel impossible. The juvenile justice system is different from the adult system, but that does not mean the consequences are minor. A criminal charge can impact a child's education, job opportunities, and future, making it critical to take action immediately. At Bastos Defense, we believe that one mistake should not define a child’s future. We fight to protect their rights and work toward outcomes that allow them to move forward without a criminal record.