What age qualifies as a juvenile in the legal system?

Typically, minors under 18 are considered juveniles, but in some cases, teens may be charged as adults depending on the crime and jurisdiction.

Can my child’s record be sealed or expunged?

Yes, many juvenile records can be sealed or expunged once the case is resolved—especially for first-time or non-violent offenses.

What happens if my child is arrested?

Your child may be held in a detention facility and brought before a judge for an initial hearing. An attorney can request release and guide the case toward a favorable outcome.

Can a juvenile be tried as an adult?

In serious felony cases, yes. A prosecutor may request a transfer to adult court. This is one of the most critical times to involve a defense attorney.

What is a diversion program, and how does it help?

Diversion programs keep the case out of formal court proceedings. If completed successfully, charges may be dismissed, helping your child avoid a criminal record.

Florida Juvenile Defense Attorney

Juvenile Defense Attorney

Compassionate, Strategic Defense for Minors Facing Charges

When a child or teen is charged with a crime, the stakes are incredibly high—not just legally, but emotionally and socially. At Darrin Johnson Law, we provide focused and compassionate legal representation for minors in the juvenile justice system. Our goal is not only to defend, but to protect your child’s future.

What We Handle

We defend minors in cases involving:

Theft, burglary, and property crimes

Drug possession or distribution

Assault, fighting, or bullying allegations

Underage DUI or alcohol-related offenses

Trespassing, vandalism, and curfew violations

Probation violations and school-related incidents

Every child deserves a second chance. We work to keep their record clean and push for diversion programs, community service, or sealed outcomes where possible.

Will My Child Have a Permanent Criminal Record?

How Juvenile Court Differs

The juvenile system emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment, but that doesn’t mean the process is easy.
We guide families through:

Intake and detention hearings
Diversion program eligibility
Negotiation with prosecutors
Juvenile court trials and sentencing
Expungement of juvenile records

Why Choose Darrin Johnson Law?

Experienced in juvenile law: We understand the system and how to navigate it effectively
Clear communication: We keep you and your child informed at every step
A personal approach: Darrin works directly with your family—not through layers of staff