Juvenile Crimes
AGGRESSIVE DEFENSE & DEDICATED REPRESENTATION
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Criminal Defense
Juvenile Crimes
- Assault
- Battery
- Bulgary
- Cyber Crimes
- Domestic Violence
- Drug Crimes
- DUI
- Expungement
- Misdemeanors
- Theft Crimes
- Robbery
- Violation of Probation
- Violent Crimes
- White Collar Crimes
No Charges Aggravated Assault
ALLEGATION: Client arrested for drive-by shooting and was facing the possibility of a minimum mandatory 15 year prison sentence under Florida’s 10-20-Life Law. RESULT: After consulting with with prosecutors and law enforcement NO CHARGES WERE FILED.
Negotiated Plea DUI Manslaughter
ALLEGATION: Client charged with DUI Manslaughter. Client faced up to 15 years prison and a permanent loss of his drivers’ license. RESULT: Client entered negotiated plea to probation and is eligible to drive with a hardship license.
Not Convicted Sexual Battery
ALLEGATION: Client who holds a professional certification and license with the State of Florida was accused of Sexual Battery with the possibility of 15 years prison and mandatory “Sexual Offender” designation. Arrest was reported in the Panama City News Herald. RESULT: Charge reduced without consent of victim to simple battery (misdemeanor). Client NOT CONVICTED of any criminal offense and not designated a Sexual Offender. Client able to return to work without loss of professional certification and license
Client NOT CONVICTED Violation of Probation
ALLEGATION: Client violated probation for a second time by failing to report (“absconding”), committing a new crime of Battery, not completing DUI school and failing to complete court ordered community service hours.
Not Convicted Violation of Probation
ALLEGATION: Client violated probation by failing to report (“absconding”) and committing a new felony of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Forgery. Client was on probation for 7 counts of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud, 6 counts of Forgery, and 6 counts of Criminal Use of Personal Identification.
Frequently Asked Questions About Juvenile Crimes
What Are The Most Common Juvenile Crimes In Panama City?
In Panama City, common juvenile crimes typically involve property offenses such as theft and vandalism, as well as drug-related charges. Data from local law enforcement and court reports highlight these as prevalent issues affecting the youth. The approach to handling these cases often involves various interventions aimed at rehabilitation, which may include community service, counseling, or probation rather than incarceration. Understanding these common offenses allows Shepard Law to tailor defense strategies that address underlying issues contributing to juvenile delinquency and present comprehensive solutions to the courts.
Can a Juvenile Record Be Expunged in Florida?
Yes — in most cases. Florida law allows juvenile records to be expunged when the individual reaches adulthood, if they were not transferred to adult court and have completed all court requirements. Expungement removes the record from public access and, in most circumstances, allows the person to legally deny the arrest. Shepard Law handles juvenile record expungement as a natural extension of juvenile defense representation.
When Should You Call a Lawyer?
Immediately — before your child speaks to law enforcement, before the DJJ intake interview, and before any statement is made. Early legal involvement can influence whether charges are filed at all, whether diversion is offered, and how the case is characterised from the outset. Do not wait until a hearing date is set.
Panama City Juvenile Defense Attorney
Protecting Your Child's Future
When a child is arrested, the decisions made in the first hours and days can shape the rest of their life. The juvenile justice system in Florida is different from the adult system — the focus is on rehabilitation rather than punishment — but that does not mean the consequences are minor. A juvenile record can affect college applications, military service, employment, and professional licensing well into adulthood.
Rusty Shepard spent years as an Assistant State Attorney prosecuting cases in Florida’s 14th Judicial Circuit, including juvenile matters, before building a criminal defense practice that regularly handles juvenile cases in Bay County courts. He understands how prosecutors approach juvenile cases — and how to defend them effectively.
How Florida's Juvenile Justice System Works
Florida’s juvenile system is designed for children under 18. Key differences from the adult system include:
- Rehabilitation focus — the system aims to address the underlying causes of the behavior, not simply punish it
- No jury trial — juvenile cases are decided by a judge, not a jury
- Juvenile records — in most cases, juvenile records are not publicly accessible and may be eligible for expungement or sealing upon reaching adulthood
- Diversion options — first-time offenders may be eligible for civil citation, informal adjustment, or pre-trial diversion, which can resolve the case without a formal adjudication
- Transfer to adult court — for serious offenses or repeat offenders, the State Attorney can request transfer to adult court, where the child would be tried and sentenced as an adult. This is the most serious risk in any juvenile case.
Common Juvenile Charges in Bay County
- Theft and shoplifting
- Disorderly conduct and disorderly intoxication
- Drug possession — marijuana and prescription pills most common
- Battery — fights at school or in public
- Trespassing
- Vandalism and criminal mischief
- Resisting an officer without violence
- Minor in Possession (MIP) — alcohol or tobacco
- DUI
- Sexting — a specific juvenile offense in Florida with serious consequences
The Juvenile Court Process in Bay County
After a juvenile is taken into custody in Bay County, the case moves through several stages:
- Intake — a Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) intake officer assesses the case and makes a recommendation to the State Attorney
- State Attorney review — the State Attorney decides whether to divert the case, file a petition (formal charges), or decline to prosecute
- Detention hearing — if the juvenile is held in detention, a hearing must occur within 24 hours
- Arraignment — the juvenile is formally advised of the charges and enters a plea
- Adjudicatory hearing — the equivalent of a trial, heard by a judge. If the judge finds the juvenile committed the offense, they are adjudicated delinquent
- Disposition hearing — the judge determines the appropriate consequence: probation, community service, residential programme, or commitment to the Department of Juvenile Justice
Is your child facing criminal charges in Panama City or Bay County? Call Shepard Law at (850) 290-2505 immediately. Available 24/7. Free consultation.
What Sets Shepard Law Apart?
Your case is our priority. We aim for the best outcome.
We understand the complexities of the legal system and the impact on your life. Our focus is on securing your future.
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