Juvenile Crime Attorney in League City, TX
Being arrested as a juvenile can have ongoing, far-reaching consequences that you may not immediately consider at the time. If you’re a parent, finding out your child has been arrested can be one of the most devastating and terrifying moments of your life. You may be confused about your next steps and desperate to get your child out of this situation. You will need help to figure this out. Reach out to a League City juvenile crime lawyer for assistance with your child’s case.
The legal team at The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates understands how hard this situation can be without the help of a League City criminal defense attorney. A juvenile crime case can lead to reputational harm, rumors, and possibly even a conviction. You’ll want a League City juvenile crime attorney to help you navigate the state’s juvenile crime laws and prevent your minor child from getting convicted. Our firm knows how to help you get through this.
The Long-Term Consequences of a Juvenile Conviction
If your minor child was arrested in League City, their criminal case would most likely be handled by the Galveston County Juvenile Justice Center, which can be found in Texas City. This court handles all sorts of juvenile cases, ranging from certain misdemeanors to certain felonies. If the felony is particularly serious and the juvenile is at least 14 years old, they may be tried as an adult. If that happens, the consequences could be much more serious and permanent.
It’s important to keep in mind that a juvenile conviction can have long-term consequences for your child’s future. A brief stint in a juvenile detention center can affect the trajectory of their life in multiple ways. In 2022, over 35,000 juveniles were referred to juvenile probation departments. In 2025, over 31% of youths admitted to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department had a determinate sentence. Here are some of the long-term consequences of a juvenile conviction:
- Permanent records. In Texas, juvenile records are not automatically sealed once the offender turns 18. You have to petition the court to have them sealed. Unsealed criminal records can appear on rental applications, college applications, and background checks for employers. This kind of record can permanently damage opportunities.
- Employment. It’s common for employers in Texas to deny an application based on a juvenile conviction. In 2020, 53 juveniles were arrested for aggravated assault, and 38 were arrested for robbery. Many employers don’t want to deal with the hassle and potential consequences of hiring someone with a background like that. Obtaining a professional license can be just as hard for the same reasons.
- Education. Depending on the age of the juvenile at the time of their arrest, they may lose out on college opportunities, including financial aid and scholarship eligibility. They could get expelled from school entirely, which could derail their educational future.
What to Do After an Arrest?
The most important thing you can do as a juvenile after an arrest is remain silent. Rely on your constitutional rights and say nothing to the police. Request a lawyer and wait for them to arrive. Juvenile cases tend to move faster through the courts than adult cases. Your parents will be notified, and a detention hearing must occur soon to determine if the juvenile will be released or held.
Unfortunately, in Texas, there is no bail in the juvenile court system. It’s up to the judge presiding over your case to decide if the child will be released or if they are seen as a potential flight risk. Your lawyer can help you build a strong defense and move forward with your case.
FAQs
What Is the Juvenile Law in Texas?
Texas juvenile law governs individuals between 10 and 16 years old and tends to focus more on rehabilitation instead of punishment. Juveniles have a right to due process, the right to an attorney, and the right to a trial, just like adults. Minor children who are 17 are generally treated as adults and could potentially face adult consequences. More serious offenses can result in determinate sentences if convicted.
What Are the Four Types of Juvenile Delinquency in Texas?
In Texas, there are generally four types of juvenile delinquency that are punished:
- Delinquent conduct. This is a serious offense that would result in prison time if committed by an adult.
- Conduct indicating a need for supervision (CINS). These are less serious and are only illegal due to the child’s age, such as curfew violations or truancy.
- Felony-level offenses. Serious crimes that will likely result in confinement to a juvenile detention facility.
- Misdemeanor offenses generally include traffic offenses and low-level driving while intoxicated charges.
Can a Juvenile Be Charged With a Felony in Texas?
Yes, it’s possible for a juvenile to be charged with a felony in Texas. It depends entirely on the details of the case and the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense. If the offense is serious enough and the child is at least 14 years old, they may end up being charged as an adult. The most productive way to help your child through felony charges is by getting an experienced juvenile lawyer to build a sound legal strategy.
Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Yes, you should absolutely hire a criminal defense lawyer, especially if your child is in legal jeopardy. Without a lawyer’s help, it’s probable that you’ll lose the case and your child will suffer serious legal penalties. A good lawyer can help you work out a defense strategy, build a strong case, protect your interests, and prevent your child from being taken advantage of during all this.
Hire a Juvenile Crime Lawyer Today
When your minor child is facing legal trouble, the most effective thing you can do is hire a juvenile crime lawyer to oversee their case. Tad A. Nelson has worked on over 400 jury trials and has over 30 years of experience helping his clients deal with defense situations just like yours. He can bring that skill to your case. Contact us to speak to someone who can help.