New York Juvenile Crime Defense
Dutchess County Juvenile Offenses Attorney
The juvenile courts are meant to help youths get back on track, but sometimes the prosecutor and the court need reminding of their separate missions. The law firm of Vasti & Vasti, PC works to ensure that a juvenile offense does not ruin your child's future.
Located in Pleasant Valley, New York, we represent teens and young adults charged with crimes in Dutchess County and throughout the Hudson Valley. Call 845-635-8866 for a free consultation to discuss your options.
Juvenile Offenses
We have defended youths against all types of criminal charges:
- Assault (school fights) against fellow students or teachers
- Drug possession or sale
- Shoplifting, burglary, auto theft and petty robbery
- Sexual offenses (attempted rape, groping, sexual assault between minors)
- Harassment and stalking
- Vandalism and criminal mischief
- Underage DWI or alcohol-related offenses
- Bomb threats to schools
- Computer fraud
- Computer hacking and/or tampering
If the accused is under 16, the matter is handled in family court, and the child will usually be released to the parents under supervision of the probation department. Juvenille offenders can be placed into secured facilities for significant periods of time but not longer than the date of their 18th birthday. Persons between the ages of 16 to 19 are prosecuted as adults in standard criminal courts, but can be eligible for youthful offender treatment and can be sentenced to a secured facility for serious crimes. Juvenile Delinquency proceedings and youthful offender cases are private and confidential, including any punishments handed down; and, such adjudications allow the Judge to "seal" and forever prevent the world from learning about the arrest, plea, conviction and/or sentence.
What Will Help the Child in the Long Run?
Attorney Tom Vasti III works to avoid the harshest penalties. He will challenge the evidence to seek dismissal of charges, or argue for alternatives to detention such as probation, community service, restitution, therapy or contracts to abide by curfews and stay in school. If the youth meets conditions and does not have further arrests, the criminal records are sealed and should not effect future employment or educational opportunities.
Vasti & Vasti believes that a fitting punishment, along with supervision and the professional help to "straighten out," is better for the accused and society than heavy-handed sentences that lock kids away or brand them as "criminals."
We offer a free initial consultation and a record of positive outcomes for those charged with juvenile offenses.
Vasti & Vasti, PC
Serious Lawyers, Serious Representation
