Toledo Juvenile Crime Lawyers
Patituce & Associates Is Ready to Stand with Your Family
It is possible for juveniles to be charged with crimes in Ohio, and when they are, it is critical for them and their loved ones to navigate these cases carefully. When the accused is a minor, there are several significant differences from usual criminal cases that can all become a disadvantage for the defendant. Even worse, these juvenile cases are often handed off to inexperienced prosecutors who may not be well-versed in due process and the subtleties of our juvenile justice system.
At Patituce & Associates, not only are we experienced, proven Toledo juvenile defense attorneys– we’re also parents. We understand what the stakes are in these cases, not just for the accused, but for the family as a whole and the future of their child. That is why we treat these cases with the diligence and severity of any criminal case we handle and ensure that our clients are given the consideration they deserve under the law.
Juvenile Cases vs. Adult Criminal Cases
One might assume that, because the defendants in juvenile cases are young, impressionable, and still have their whole lives ahead of them, they would be offered more protections under the juvenile justice system than adults do in our criminal justice system. Alarmingly, this is not usually the case. In fact, there are numerous factors that affect the rights of juvenile defendants and the outcome of these cases.
In the juvenile justice system:
- Juveniles have no right to bail or bond. Not all juveniles are held in a detention center while their case is pending (many are allowed home detention or are released to their parents), but those who are will not have access to a bail or bond hearing. And because they have no right to a speedy trial either, these detention periods can end up being lengthy.
- Juveniles have the right to a jury trial. Many criminal matters hinge on the defendant and their counsel clarifying the facts and appealing to a jury of peers. For juvenile cases, there are no juries. Nearly all cases are handled by a single judge.
- Juvenile sentencing can be decided by the Department of Corrections. If a juvenile is sentenced to incarceration, their punishment is re-evaluated by the Department of Corrections if they turn 21 while serving their sentence. When that happens, they have the authority to reapply for adult sentencing—resulting in an even longer time behind bars.
These are just some of the urgent reasons why dedicated, proven defense counsel is needed in these cases. At Patituce & Associates, we approach these cases with these concerns in mind and ensure they are emphatically voiced throughout every stage of your child’s case. Call our Toledo juvenile crime attorneys today to learn more.
We understand that your specific situation requires individualized attention, and we are dedicated to providing just that.
No Case is Hopeless
We Don't Back Down. Ever.
Explore some of our recent wins.
-
Case Dismissed CLEVELAND V. AL-NAZER (2012 TRC 040781)
Our client was accused of driving while under the influence of drugs, or alcohol.
-
Not Guilty At Trial ROCKY RIVER V. D.F.
Client was charged with domestic violence against his wife.
-
Plea and Record Expunged STATE V. BAILEY, CUYAHOGA
Client was accused of stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of property.
-
Charges Dismissed State v. Beckwith, Cuyahoga County
Student charged with the manufacturing of ecstasy.
-
Case Dismissed STATE V. J.S. (A JUVENILE) YOUNGSTOWN
Local counsel pushed for a plea to one of the sex related charges.
-
Acquittal State v. Tevin Biles
Client was identified as one of the alleged shooters at a New Year’s Eve party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to your questions about juvenile crimes.
Will my child have a permanent criminal record after a juvenile adjudication?
Most juvenile adjudications in Ohio do not result in a permanent record that follows a child into adulthood. Record sealing or expungement may be possible, but options depend on the offense type and whether all court requirements are satisfied. Consult an attorney to discuss record sealing in Lucas County based on your child’s case.
Can my child be tried as an adult in Lucas County?
In certain serious felony cases, a juvenile can face a “bind-over” hearing, where the judge decides if the case gets transferred to adult court. This depends on the charge and specific Ohio law. Talk to a juvenile defense lawyer in Toledo to understand if this may apply in your child’s situation.
Are there alternatives to detention for juveniles?
Yes, Lucas County offers a range of options besides detention, such as diversion programs, counseling, probation, and community service. Eligibility depends on the charge and prior history. Discuss these with your attorney early—exploring alternatives can help shape the best outcome for your child.
The Juvenile Defense Process in Toledo
Understanding the juvenile defense process in Toledo helps families prepare for what lies ahead and supports confident, informed decisions. Every phase has its own requirements, especially within Lucas County Juvenile Court, and knowing what to expect gives your child the best opportunity for a positive outcome. A juvenile defense attorney in Toledo will be your guide from start to finish, making the process less stressful and helping you protect your child’s rights.
The process generally starts when law enforcement begins an investigation or a complaint is filed. Authorities or school officials may contact parents to explain what’s happening. If the situation requires legal intervention, the process typically follows these phases:
- Detention hearing: Determines whether the juvenile will remain in custody or be released during the case. In Toledo, this occurs quickly, usually within a few days. A juvenile defense lawyer can present arguments to the judge for release.
- Pretrial conferences: Lawyers review evidence, discuss possible resolutions, and set case timelines. The defense can challenge evidence and explore diversion or support programs.
- Adjudication (trial): A judge, not a jury, hears the testimony and decides the outcome. The juvenile’s attorney presents evidence and argues for a reduction or dismissal based on the individual situation.
- Disposition (sentencing): If found delinquent, the juvenile receives their sentence in a separate hearing. The judge may consider alternatives such as probation or counseling, based on recommendations from the defense and the details of the case.
Through every step, our juvenile defense lawyer in Toledo stays in close communication with families to review the progress, explain court decisions, and adapt as new information arises. Having a defense team with Lucas County experience provides families with reassurance and helps protect what matters most.
What Do You Do If Your Child Is Charged With a Crime?
Few circumstances can be as stressful for a parent as learning that their child has been charged with a crime. It’s common to not know how to proceed—or even what your family’s options are. Below, we outline two immediate steps any family can take to help ensure a favorable outcome in these matters.
If you learn that your child has been charged with a crime:
- Immediately get in contact with a proven Toledo criminal attorney. Police will consult with parents before questioning a minor and it is highly advised that you first consult with an attorney and have one present when your child is questioned. Our firm includes three former prosecutors that know what tactics police use in questioning to extract damaging statements. We can guard your child against these tactics and protect them from further implicating him or herself.
- Exercise your right to remain silent. Police will also want to question parents about their child and what happened. It is advised that you exercise your right to remain silent. Often, parents are quick to want to “clear things up” with police and set the record straight on behalf of their child. If your child has already been arrested, then the record likely has to be set straight in court with the help of an attorney. Simply tell law enforcement that you wish to exercise your right to remain silent at this time.
How We Build a Personalized Juvenile Defense Strategy
Creating an effective defense strategy for a juvenile case in Toledo requires more than simply knowing the law. We begin with an in-depth discussion to understand your family’s concerns, your child’s background and school life, any past discipline issues, and the unique circumstances surrounding the charges. During these meetings, we identify potential risks as well as opportunities for early intervention that could shape a more positive result.
Our hands-on, personalized approach as juvenile defense attorneys in Toledo means we thoroughly gather and analyze evidence that may go beyond what the prosecution presents. This can include school records, specialist evaluations, or input from counselors and mentors. Such thorough investigation lets us present the full context in court, highlighting your child’s strengths, circumstances, and any factors that may mitigate the charges. We also interview witnesses who can describe the events or speak about your child’s character, especially in cases where incidents occur at school or in the community and misunderstandings are common.
- Thorough evidence review: We examine all details, including timelines, police reports, and communications from school personnel and officers.
- Individualized recommendations: Depending on your child’s needs, we may recommend counseling, extracurriculars, or participation in recognized intervention programs to bolster the defense.
- Collaborative planning: We keep your family closely involved, adjusting our strategies as things change so you’re always informed about the next steps and possible results.
This detailed and compassionate approach has helped many families in the Toledo area navigate juvenile court with confidence and secure brighter prospects for their children.
Contact us today to get started with our juvenile crimes attorney in Toledo.
