CRIMINAL CHARGES AGAINST JUVENILES
Juvenile Crimes
Home | Criminal Defense | Juvenile Crimes
Juvenile Criminal Charges in Columbus, Ohio: Protecting Your Child’s Future
As a parent in Columbus, hearing that your child has been arrested can be devastating. At the Law Office of Nathan Akamine, we understand the fear and uncertainty you’re facing. With years of experience navigating the Ohio juvenile justice system, we’re here to guide your family through this challenging time and fight for your child’s rights and future.
UNDERSTANDING THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM
The juvenile court process in Ohio differs significantly from the adult criminal justice system. Its primary focus is on rehabilitation rather than punishment, but the consequences of a juvenile offense can still have long-lasting impacts on your child’s life.
Key Differences in Juvenile Cases:
- Juveniles are found “delinquent” rather than “guilty”
- Cases are heard by a judge, not a jury
- Emphasis on rehabilitation programs over incarceration
- Easier process for sealing juvenile records
What Our Clients
Are Saying
Nathan Akamine has been recognized as one of the top Columbus criminal defense lawyers in the region. Let Akamine Criminal Defense Law fight for you.
What Our Clients
Are Saying
Nathan Akamine has been recognized as one of the top Columbus criminal defense lawyers in the region. Let Akamine Criminal Defense Law fight for you.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY CHILD IS ARRESTED IN COLUMBUS?
If your child is arrested in Columbus, it’s crucial to understand the process:
- Initial detention and police questioning
- Possible release to parents or detention in a juvenile facility
- Arraignment hearing
- Pretrial negotiations and potential diversion programs
- Adjudication hearing (similar to a trial)
- Disposition hearing (sentencing)
As an experienced Columbus juvenile defense attorney, I will be with you every step of the way, ensuring your child’s rights are protected throughout the process.
POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF JUVENILE CHARGES
While the juvenile system aims for rehabilitation, serious consequences can still result from a delinquency finding:
- Probation and community service
- Mandatory counseling or rehabilitation programs
- Placement in group homes or detention centers
- GPS monitoring
In severe cases, transfer to adult court.
ALTERNATIVES TO JUVENILE DETENTION IN OHIO
At Akamine Law, we strongly advocate for alternatives to detention whenever possible. Franklin County offers several diversion and rehabilitation programs that can help your child avoid the most severe consequences of a juvenile offense:
- Youth diversion programs
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health counseling
- Restorative justice initiatives
- Community service opportunities
We’ll work tirelessly to explore all available options and find the best path forward for your child.
JUVENILE VS. ADULT COURT
In some cases, the prosecution may attempt to try a juvenile as an adult. This process, known as “bindover,” can have serious implications for your child’s future. We have extensive experience fighting bindover attempts and keeping cases in juvenile court where rehabilitation is the priority.
SEALING JUVENILE RECORDS IN COLUMBUS
One advantage of the juvenile system is the ability to seal records, giving your child a fresh start. We can guide you through the process of sealing juvenile records in Columbus, helping to protect your child’s future educational and employment opportunities.
Talk to Nathan Akamine for FREE
If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges, let's talk.
Why choose us?
When facing juvenile criminal charges in Columbus, you need an attorney who understands the unique aspects of Ohio’s juvenile justice system.
We know the system
We have in-depth knowledge of Ohio juvenile law and recent reforms. We stay up-to-date with the latest changes in juvenile law, ensuring your child receives the most current and effective legal representation.
Local Experience
Years of experience in Columbus courtrooms have allowed us to build professional relationships with local prosecutors and judges that can benefit your child’s case through more productive negotiations and respected advocacy.
Highly recommended
Most of my clients come from word of mouth. My past clients know how I’ve helped them and they recommend me to their family and friends. That’s the best endorsement I could ask for.
Proven Results
We get the results you need while taking a human-based approach. We understand this is a stressful time for the whole family. Our team provides empathetic guidance and clear communication every step of the way.
Common
Questions
01
At what age can a juvenile be tried as an adult in Ohio?
Juveniles as young as 14 can potentially be tried as adults for certain serious offenses. This process, known as “bindover,” is not automatic and depends on factors such as:
- The nature and severity of the alleged offense
- The juvenile’s prior record
- The juvenile’s mental and emotional maturity
- A skilled juvenile defense attorney will fight to keep your child’s case in juvenile court whenever possible.
02
What is a diversion program, and how can it benefit my child?
Diversion programs are alternative interventions designed to redirect youth from formal processing in the juvenile justice system. Benefits include:
- Avoiding a formal delinquency record
- Focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment
- Addressing underlying issues (e.g., substance abuse, mental health)
- Potentially shorter duration than formal probation
Eligibility typically depends on the nature of the offense and your child’s prior record. An experienced attorney can advocate for your child’s participation in these programs.
03
How long does a juvenile case typically take in Columbus?
The duration of a juvenile case in can vary depending on several factors:
- The complexity of the case
- Whether the case goes to trial or is resolved through plea negotiations
- Court schedules and potential backlogs
- Participation in diversion programs
Simple cases might be resolved in a few weeks, while more complex cases could take several months. We can give you a more accurate timeline based on your child’s specific situation.
04
What rights do parents have in the juvenile justice process in Ohio?
As a parent of a juvenile involved in the Ohio justice system, you have several important rights:
- to be notified of your child’s arrest and court appearances
- to be present at all court hearings
- to participate in developing a treatment or rehabilitation plan
- to access your child’s court records
- to appeal decisions made by the juvenile court
However, it’s crucial to remember that your child also has independent rights, including the right to an attorney. Don’t worry, we can help you navigate this complex process while respecting both your rights and your child’s.
05
Can my child be required to register as a sex offender for a juvenile offense in Ohio?
Yes, but it’s not automatic and differs from adult registration:
- Registration requires a separate hearing and is not mandatory.
- The court considers factors like offense nature, age, and reoffending risk.
- Registration periods are typically shorter than for adults.
- Juvenile registry information is generally not public.
- Early removal from the registry may be possible.
As your child’s attorney, we can:
- Challenge the need for registration
- Argue for minimal restrictions if registration is ordered
- Pursue early removal options
- Guide your family through this complex process
Remember, the juvenile system focuses on rehabilitation. With proper legal representation, it’s possible to avoid registration or minimize its impact on your child’s future.
Still have questions?
If your child is facing a criminal charge, don’t wait to seek legal representation. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start building a robust defense strategy on their behalf. Let us be your trusted advocate during this challenging time.
Contact us for free consultation.
Don’t let a mistake derail your child’s future. Contact the Law Office of Nathan Akamine today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll listen to your concerns, explain your options, and develop a strategy to protect your child’s rights and future.
Call us now at (614) 433-6818 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation. Remember, when it comes to juvenile criminal charges in Columbus, early intervention is key.
Let us help you navigate this challenging time and work towards the best possible outcome for your child.
