Chicago Juvenile Crimes Lawyer

Has Your Child Been Arrested for a Crime? Call Attorney Toney Now

No matter how old or young a person is, when a crime of any kind is committed, they could face harsh legal repercussions. Fortunately for juveniles, the court system is geared toward rehabilitating young offenders and taking steps to reduce the likelihood of regression into criminal behavior. This means that the child has a greater opportunity to be given a second chance when proceeding through the judicial system.

In certain circumstances, however, the prosecution may argue to have the child tried as an adult, which will lead to a full-fledged criminal jury trial and far more severe and damaging penalties if convicted. No matter what type of crime was committed, juveniles will need to have their rights protected and an advocate who will ensure that the case moves forward in a way that is best for them and their family.

It is highly advised that parents seek the legal representation of a skilled and knowledgeable juvenile defense attorney in Chicago. Call The Toney Law Firm, LLC at (888) 473-4058 to get counsel that is experienced in criminal defense law cases and the juvenile court system.

Common Charges We Fight for Your Child in Chicago

The Toney Law Firm, LLC is intimately familiar with criminal defense procedures and can help juvenile clients vigorously fight any charges they are facing in order to help preserve their future freedom.

The firm represents minors under the age of 17 in a wide range of criminal legal matters, including:

• Drug crimes
• Sex crimes
• Internet sex crimes
• Theft crimes
• Burglary/robbery
• Violent crimes
• Murder or manslaughter

Even though the juvenile system can sometimes be more understanding of a kid who has made a poor choice, it will take the skill, creativity, and talent of your attorney to properly defend them in court and aim to minimize or even avoid the negative repercussions that they are now facing.

Understanding The Illinois Juvenile Court Process

Parents often want to know what will actually happen after a juvenile arrest in Chicago and how long the process will take. While every case is unique, most matters move through several common stages, starting with the initial arrest or police contact and moving into intake with probation or a filing decision by the State’s Attorney. 

If a petition is filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, your child may have a detention hearing, followed by status dates, negotiations, and potentially a trial or other resolution. Knowing the general path of a case helps your family prepare emotionally and practically for what is ahead.

At each step, we explain what the court is deciding and what choices you and your child may have so that you never feel rushed or left in the dark. A juvenile defense lawyer in Chicago will prepare your child for speaking with probation officers, appearing in front of a judge, or participating in evaluations that the court may order. 

We can also coordinate with schools or counselors, when appropriate, to help show the court that your child is taking the situation seriously and engaging in positive steps. By staying involved throughout the process, we work to keep your child’s case moving in the right direction and to avoid unnecessary delays or surprises.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Juvenile Delinquency in Chicago

In the juvenile system, a minor is not found "guilty"; instead, a judge makes a "finding of delinquency." However, the "disposition" (sentencing) can still be severe. Potential outcomes include:

• Probation: The most common outcome, requiring the minor to follow strict rules, attend school, and meet regularly with a probation officer.
• Court Supervision: A preferred outcome where, if the minor stays out of trouble for a set period, the case is dismissed without a formal finding of delinquency.
• Community Service and Restitution: Paying back victims for damages or performing labor for the community.
• Detention: In serious cases, a minor may be committed to the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center or the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ).
• Collateral Consequences: A juvenile record is not "automatically" erased at 18. It can interfere with college applications, military enlistment, and future employment. Furthermore, certain offenses may require the minor to register as a sex offender, a burden that can last for decades.

How We Defend Juvenile Crime Accusations

Because every young person and every case is different, we take a personalized approach that looks at your child’s background, school situation, family support, and mental health needs when building a defense. A juvenile criminal lawyer from our team can work to highlight positive factors to the prosecutor and the judge, which can sometimes open the door to diversion, counseling, or community-based options rather than more restrictive consequences.

When you work with The Toney Law Firm, LLC, our team can take focused steps to protect your child’s future and record:

• Carefully reviewing evidence such as police reports, videos, and witness statements to identify weaknesses in the State’s case and potential defenses.
• Challenging rights violations involving unlawful searches, improper questioning of a minor, or failures to follow Illinois juvenile procedures in Chicago courts.
• Exploring alternative resolutions like diversion programs, counseling, or community service that may reduce the impact on your child’s record and day-to-day life.
• Preparing your child for court appearances, meetings with probation, and conversations with school officials so they understand what to expect and how to present themselves.

When we defend a minor, we look closely at how the police interacted with your child, whether school officials or a school resource officer were involved, and whether your child truly understood their rights before speaking. A juvenile defense attorney in Chicago can challenge improper searches, unlawful interrogations, or statements taken without a parent present, which may lead to evidence being limited or excluded. 

We also discuss long-term issues like potential expungement of a juvenile record in Illinois and how different outcomes might affect college applications, employment, and future professional licensing.

If your child is facing criminal charges, a juvenile defense attorney at our firm is prepared to inform you of your legal options and proceed in a way that protects your child's best interests. Contact The Toney Law Firm, LLC today to request a free case evaluation by calling (888) 473-4058!