Experienced Tacoma Juvenile Defense Lawyer
A youthful mistake can come back to haunt your son or daughter, especially a felony conviction. Juvenile court is supposed to focus on rehabilitation. You need a juvenile crime defense lawyer to fight false accusations or make sure this incident doesn't ruin your son or daughter’s life.
I am Les Tolzin, and I have practiced in criminal law in the Tacoma, Washington, area for 18 years, including juvenile crime defense in Pierce, Thurston and King Counties. Contact me for a free consultation. I have represented youths charged with a criminal offense, including:
- Underage drinking and underage DUI
- Shoplifting, theft, burglary and vandalism
- Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle
- Drug possession
- Assault and battery
- Sexual assault
- Weapon offenses
Juvenile Crime Defense
First, we need to determine exactly what charges your child is facing — and whether they will be adjudicated in juvenile court or prosecuted as an adult. I do everything possible to keep children accused of a crime in the juvenile system and not the adult criminal justice system. From there I will work to formulate a defense or begin talks with the prosecutor on acceptable punishment.
Juveniles may not face the same penalties as an adult, but they also do not enjoy the same constitutional rights such as a jury trial. A judge will determine your child's fate. I work hard to keep my clients out of custody and avoid a felony conviction if at all possible — a felony record is not sealed and will carry over into adulthood.
Your child may be able to enter into a diversion program or deferred adjudication, meaning the charges are later dismissed if they comply with the court's terms and stay out of trouble.
Protect Your Child's Future
Call me at 253-274-9441 for a free consultation and experienced juvenile crime defense.
