Juvenile Criminal Cases Lawyer in Wheaton

Facing criminal charges is an overwhelming and frightening experience, especially when it involves your child. While the juvenile justice system offers opportunities for rehabilitation, it’s still important to have skilled legal representation to ensure your child’s future remains protected. Whether your child is accused of a minor offense or something more serious, the impact of a conviction can be long-lasting.

Juvenile Criminal Cases Banner - Robert J. Hanauer Speaking to Juvenile Client

The Juvenile Justice System and Its Implications

In Wheaton, juveniles under the age of 18 who face criminal charges are processed through the juvenile justice system, which differs significantly from the adult criminal court system. While the emphasis is on rehabilitation, a conviction can still result in significant consequences, including probation, detention, and even adult court prosecution for more serious crimes. What’s more, if prosecutors decide to try your child as an adult, the penalties can be severe. That’s why you need a juvenile crimes lawyer in Wheaton who knows how to navigate the system and protect your child’s future.

Why Choose Hanauer Law to Defend Your Child’s Future?

Rob Hanauer, the founder of Hanauer Law, has a deep understanding of the challenges parents face when their children are accused of a crime. As a father of four and a former educator, Rob recognizes the importance of securing a future for your child without the weight of a criminal conviction. The right lawyer can help to ensure your child has the opportunity to learn from their mistakes rather than facing life-altering consequences.

Our legal team takes a personalized, hands-on approach to juvenile crime cases. We understand that kids make mistakes, and sometimes law enforcement can make errors in judgment. Whether it’s a misunderstanding or your child is facing serious allegations, we’re here to fight aggressively for the best possible outcome.

Man standing getting a photo taken at the police department.

Types of Juvenile Crimes Hanauer Law Handles

At Hanauer Law, we represent minors accused of a wide range of criminal offenses, including:

Shoplifting and theft
Underage drinking
Disorderly conduct
Vandalism
Aggravated assault
Illegal possession of a firearm
Drug-related offenses
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Robbery
And much more

Your Child’s Rights in the Juvenile Justice System

Our experienced juvenile crimes attorneys in Wheaton will scrutinize every detail of the case, ensuring that your child’s rights are upheld during the investigation. We’ll look for any violations such as improper police conduct, illegal search and seizure, or failure to properly inform your child of their right to remain silent. Any mishandling of evidence or testimony can potentially result in a more favorable outcome for your child.

Juvenile Court Process in Wheaton

In juvenile court, a judge—not a jury—decides the case. The focus is on rehabilitation and guiding minors away from a life of crime. As such, the penalties in juvenile court can be lighter than those in the adult system, but still serious. A conviction could lead to probation, mandatory community service, or detention in a juvenile facility.

For more serious crimes, like violent offenses or sex crimes, prosecutors might try to have the minor tried as an adult, with far harsher consequences.

Don’t Wait—Protect Your Child’s Future

If your child is facing criminal charges in Wheaton, time is critical. Contact Hanauer Law today to schedule a free consultation. Our team is committed to fighting for your child’s future, ensuring they get the second chance they deserve.