Juvenile Crimes

Houston Juvenile Defense Attorneys

No one expects their child to commit a crime. When it happens, it can be a frightening experience for both the parents and the child. If a minor is charged with a crime in Harris County, the case is handled by the Juvenile Justice Center. While the juvenile justice system focuses on rehabilitation, detention is still a possibility depending on the severity of the offense. Whether your child is caught with a fake I.D., in possession of drugs, or involved in criminal mischief, the juvenile defense attorneys at Salinas Defense are here to help.

Under the Texas Family Code, every juvenile must be represented by an attorney during justice proceedings. Take the first step in protecting your child’s future and contact Salinas Defense. With decades of experience in juvenile criminal defense, we are committed to fighting for your family.

At Salinas Defense, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be. That’s why our juvenile defense attorneys treat every case with care and determination. We will use every available resource to seek the best possible outcome for your child. Call (832) 820-1888 to schedule a free consultation.

We proudly defend juveniles throughout Harris County, including communities like Houston, Pearland, Pasadena, Deer Park, Webster, and more.

Possession of Alcohol by a Minor

According to the CDC, individuals between 12 and 20 years old account for about 11% of all alcohol consumption in the U.S. Because alcohol is so accessible, it’s easy to forget that there are strict laws governing its possession.

One of the most common juvenile offenses is possession of alcohol by a minor. Under Section 106.05 of the Texas Penal Code, anyone under 21 is prohibited from possessing alcohol. However, there are certain exceptions:

Possession for employment-related purposes
Possession in the presence of a parent, guardian, or spouse
Possession for specific coursework or education

If the person charged is 18 or older, their case will be heard in adult court. If under 17, it will generally go through juvenile court.

Criminal Mischief

It’s normal for kids to push boundaries, but when property is damaged in the process, it can lead to criminal charges. Criminal mischief includes not only destruction of property but also other specific actions.

Under Section 28.03 of the Texas Penal Code, criminal mischief may involve:

Damaging or destroying another person’s property
Tampering with property in a way that causes loss or inconvenience
Drawing, painting, or marking property with slogans or graffiti

If found responsible, juveniles may be required to compensate the property owner for the damages.

Juvenile Justice Process

When your child is accused of a crime, understanding how the Texas juvenile justice system works is essential. Knowing the process will help you better support your child through each stage.

Unlike adults, juveniles go through a different set of legal procedures. In many cases, juveniles are released to their parents unless the offense is serious or violent.

Some juveniles may be referred to a first-offender program which could include community service, education programs, and restitution. Successful completion often results in the dismissal of charges.

If the child is not referred to one of these programs, they will proceed through the following juvenile court process:

Detention hearing: A judge determines whether the child should remain in detention or be released.
Transfer hearing: Prosecutors may request the case be moved to adult court based on the charges and the juvenile’s age.
Adjudication hearing: This functions like a trial, where evidence is presented if the juvenile pleads not guilty.
Disposition hearing: If the juvenile is found guilty, sentencing is determined here.
Appeal: Juveniles, like adults, have the right to appeal their case.

Having a skilled defense attorney by your side during every step of this process is critical.

Punishments for Juvenile Offenses

Just like in adult court, juvenile punishments depend on the nature of the crime and any prior offenses. If found guilty, the consequences may include:

Probation: The juvenile remains at home but must follow strict rules. These may include counseling, restitution, attending school, and meeting with a probation officer.
Detention: Juveniles may be held for up to nine months at the Harris County Juvenile Detention Center.
Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD): For serious or repeat offenses, a minor may be committed to the TJJD. Sentences can be indeterminate (9 months to 2 years) or determinate (lasting years, possibly resulting in a transfer to adult prison).
Drug Court: In drug or alcohol-related cases, juveniles may be diverted to drug court programs involving treatment and education instead of detention.

Additional Resources for Juvenile Offenses

Alcohol Crimes by Minors | Texas Penal Code – View the full legal code related to alcohol offenses committed by minors, including possession, consumption, and attempts to purchase.

Juvenile Justice Handbook – Office of the Texas Attorney General – A comprehensive guide to juvenile justice in Texas, including your rights as a parent and the full legal process for juvenile offenders.

Contact Our Houston, TX Juvenile Defense Attorneys

By visiting this page, you’re already taking the right step in protecting your child’s future. Now take the next one—speak with a skilled juvenile defense attorney at Salinas Defense.

We represent families across Harris County, including Alvin, Manvel, League City, and La Porte. Call (832) 820-1888 to schedule your free case consultation today.