Attorney for Juvenile Criminal Charges in Greeley: What Are the Most Common Juvenile Charges in Colorado?
Colorado’s juvenile system is governed largely by the Children’s Code (C.R.S. Title 19). Young people between 10 and 17 are typically handled in juvenile court, where a petition replaces a criminal complaint and a youth is “adjudicated delinquent” rather than “convicted.” In Weld County, the allegations most often seen include:
- Theft and Shoplifting: taking property from stores, schools, or neighbors
- Underage possession or consumption of alcohol and marijuana: often arising from school incidents or traffic stops
- Drug possession: including allegations involving vaping devices, THC products, or prescription pills
- Assault and fighting: including Third Degree Assault, often stemming from school or social conflicts
- Criminal Mischief and vandalism: property damage allegations
- Trespassing: entering buildings, schools, or private property
- Harassment and cyber-related offenses: including threatening messages or sharing intimate images
- Weapons allegations: such as possession of a weapon on school grounds
- Traffic offenses and Reckless Driving
What Happens After a Juvenile Is Accused in Erie or Evans?
A case may begin with a police contact, a school referral, or a summons. The Weld County District Attorney’s Office decides whether to file a petition, refer the case to diversion, or take no action. If a petition is filed, a judge or magistrate typically decides the case in juvenile court.
What Outcomes Are Possible?
- Diversion: a program that may avoid a formal adjudication
- Probation: with school, counseling, or treatment requirements
- Community service and restitution
- Detention or out-of-home placement: in more serious cases
In certain serious cases, older juveniles can face adult court. Juvenile records may be sealed in some situations, but an open case can still affect school, sports, and future plans.
How Are Cases Handled in Greeley?
Referrals often come from the Greeley Police Department, the Weld County Sheriff’s Office, or local schools, and cases are heard in Weld County juvenile court.
Frequently Asked Questions About Juvenile Criminal Cases
What is the most common juvenile charge in Colorado?
Theft, alcohol and drug offenses, and Assault are among the most frequently filed.
Does my child have the right to an attorney?
Yes. Young people accused of delinquent acts have the right to legal counsel.
Can a juvenile record be sealed?
Some juvenile records may be eligible for sealing or expungement.
Should my child talk to police without a lawyer?
No. Your child has the right to remain silent and the right to counsel.
If you’re child’s been charged with a juvenile criminal case, be smart, exercise their right to remain silent and contact the best juvenile defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009 to schedule a consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
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