Juvenile Defense
Being accused of a crime as a minor can have serious and lasting consequences. Although Colorado’s juvenile justice system is designed differently than the adult criminal court system, a juvenile arrest or delinquency case should never be taken lightly. A conviction or adjudication can affect a child’s education, future employment opportunities, driving privileges, college admissions, military eligibility, and other important aspects of their life. Parents often assume that a juvenile offense will simply “go away” because the child is under 18, but that is not always the case under Colorado law.
In most situations, juveniles accused of committing criminal offenses are prosecuted through Colorado’s juvenile court system rather than adult criminal court. The juvenile court process emphasizes rehabilitation while still holding young offenders accountable for their actions. However, the court still has the authority to impose significant penalties depending on the circumstances of the case. A juvenile found delinquent may be ordered to complete probation, community service, restitution, counseling, substance abuse or mental health treatment, educational programs, electronic monitoring, or detention in a juvenile facility. For more serious or repeat offenses, some juveniles may even face prosecution in adult court, where substantially harsher penalties are possible.
Colorado juvenile courts handle a wide variety of offenses involving minors, including underage DUI, drug possession, shoplifting, theft, vandalism, assault, robbery, weapons offenses, sex crimes, alcohol possession, traffic crimes, and many other delinquency matters. Regardless of the specific allegation, every juvenile case has the potential to leave a lasting impact on a young person’s future. Early intervention by an experienced juvenile defense attorney can often make a significant difference in the outcome of the case by identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, negotiating diversion programs, seeking dismissals, or pursuing other alternatives that help protect a child’s record.
If your child has been arrested or charged with a juvenile offense in Colorado, it is important to act quickly. The decisions made during the early stages of a juvenile case can influence everything from sentencing and probation to whether the child’s record may later be sealed. Having an experienced juvenile defense lawyer who understands Colorado juvenile law can help protect your child’s constitutional rights while working toward the best possible outcome.
Denver Juvenile Defense Attorney | Colorado Juvenile Crime Lawyer
At Denvers Defense Attorney, attorney Matthew Martin understands that one mistake should not define a young person’s future. With more than 20 years of criminal defense trial experience, he represents juveniles and their families throughout the Denver metropolitan area in a wide range of delinquency cases. Drawing upon his experience on both sides of the criminal justice system, Mr. Martin understands how prosecutors build juvenile cases and develops strategic defenses designed to minimize the long-term consequences for his clients.
Whether your child has been accused of a misdemeanor offense or a serious felony, Matthew Martin works aggressively to protect their rights, pursue favorable resolutions, and safeguard future educational and career opportunities whenever possible. Denvers Defense Attorney proudly represents juveniles and their families throughout Denver and the surrounding communities, including Adams County, Arapahoe County, Boulder County, Broomfield County, Douglas County, and Jefferson County. To discuss your child’s case with an experienced Colorado juvenile defense attorney, call 303.725.0017 today or fill out our consultation form to schedule a confidential consultation.
Overview of Juvenile Crimes in Denver, Colorado
- Types of Juvenile Crimes in Denver, CO
- What Happens After a Juvenile Is Charged with a Crime in Colorado?
- Can a Juvenile Record Be Sealed or Expunged in Colorado?
- What Are the Collateral Consequences of a Juvenile Crime in Colorado?
- What Are the Sentencing Options for a Juvenile in Colorado?
- What Is the Difference Between Juvenile and Adult Court in CO?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Juvenile Crimes in Colorado
- Additional Resources
Types of Juvenile Crimes in Denver, CO
The most commonly prosecuted juvenile crimes prosecuted in Colorado include:
Juvenile Possession of Alcohol – Colorado law generally prohibits individuals under the age of 21 from possessing or consuming alcoholic beverages except in limited situations permitted by law. Juveniles cited for alcohol possession may face criminal penalties in addition to school disciplinary action or driver’s license consequences. Depending on the circumstances, penalties can include fines, alcohol education classes, community service, probation, and suspension of driving privileges.
Possession of a Fake ID – A juvenile may be charged for possessing, displaying, creating, or using a fake identification card to misrepresent their age or identity. These charges commonly arise when attempting to purchase alcohol, enter age-restricted venues, or obtain other benefits reserved for adults. A conviction may lead to fines, probation, driver’s license suspension, community service, and other penalties that can affect a juvenile’s future educational and employment opportunities.
Underage DUI – Colorado has strict laws governing underage drinking and driving, allowing juveniles to face penalties even when their blood alcohol concentration is below the legal limit for adults. A juvenile may be charged with underage drinking and driving (UDD), DWAI, or DUI depending on the facts of the case and the driver’s level of impairment. Consequences may include license suspension, fines, alcohol education programs, probation, community service, and increased penalties for repeat offenses.
Drug possession – Juveniles may be charged with drug possession for knowingly possessing illegal drugs or controlled substances without a valid prescription. The severity of the charge often depends on the type and amount of the substance involved, as well as whether there is evidence of distribution or intent to sell. A conviction may result in probation, mandatory drug treatment or counseling, community service, detention, and a lasting juvenile record.
Weapons offenses – Juvenile weapons offenses can include unlawful possession of a firearm, carrying a prohibited weapon, possessing a weapon on school property, or using a weapon while committing another crime. Colorado imposes strict penalties for weapons violations involving minors, particularly when firearms are involved. Depending on the circumstances, a juvenile may face probation, detention, firearm restrictions, or enhanced penalties if the offense involved violence or threats.
Traffic crimes – Juveniles can face criminal charges for serious traffic offenses such as reckless driving, careless driving causing injury, leaving the scene of an accident, driving without a valid license, or attempting to elude law enforcement. While many traffic violations are handled through the traffic court system, criminal traffic offenses can lead to more significant consequences. Penalties may include fines, driver’s license suspension, probation, mandatory driving courses, or juvenile detention in more serious cases.
Vandalism – Juvenile vandalism charges typically involve intentionally damaging, destroying, or defacing another person’s property. Common examples include graffiti, damaging vehicles, breaking windows, or destroying school property. In Colorado, the severity of a vandalism charge generally depends on the value of the damage caused, with more expensive damage leading to more serious penalties that may include restitution, probation, community service, or juvenile detention.
Theft – Juvenile theft charges involve unlawfully taking another person’s money or property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Theft can involve cash, electronics, personal belongings, vehicles, or other valuable property. Colorado classifies theft offenses largely based on the value of the property involved, with higher-value thefts carrying more severe penalties that may include restitution, probation, community service, or detention.
Shoplifting – Shoplifting occurs when a juvenile intentionally takes merchandise from a store without paying or attempts to deprive the business of its property through deception or concealment. Even a first-time offense can lead to serious consequences, including juvenile court proceedings, restitution to the retailer, community service, and probation. Repeat offenses or thefts involving higher-value merchandise may result in more severe penalties.
Robbery – Robbery is a serious violent crime that involves taking property directly from another person through the use of force, intimidation, or threats. Unlike ordinary theft, robbery involves direct interaction with the victim, making it a much more serious offense under Colorado law. Juveniles accused of robbery may face significant penalties, including detention, probation, restitution, and in especially serious cases, prosecution in adult court.
Aggravated assault – Aggravated assault generally involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause serious bodily injury or using a deadly weapon during an assault. These allegations often arise from school fights, group altercations, or incidents involving knives or firearms. Because aggravated assault is considered a violent felony, juveniles convicted of this offense may face substantial penalties, including lengthy probation, detention, or transfer to adult criminal court in certain circumstances.
Sex crimes – Colorado juveniles may face allegations involving a wide range of sex offenses, including unlawful sexual contact, sexual assault, internet sex crimes, indecent exposure, or the unlawful possession or distribution of explicit images. Because these cases often involve sensitive evidence and unique legal issues surrounding juvenile offenders, they require careful handling. Depending on the offense, a conviction may result in detention, mandatory counseling, probation, and in certain cases, sex offender registration requirements.
Rape or Sexual Assault – Juveniles accused of rape or sexual assault face some of the most serious allegations under Colorado law. These cases often involve complex factual disputes, forensic evidence, consent issues, and extensive investigations by law enforcement. A conviction can result in detention, mandatory treatment programs, lengthy supervision, and, in some circumstances, registration as a sex offender, making early legal representation especially important.
What Happens After a Juvenile Is Charged with a Crime in Colorado?
The juvenile court process in Colorado differs significantly from the adult criminal justice system. Rather than focusing solely on punishment, juvenile courts are designed to hold young people accountable while encouraging rehabilitation and reducing the likelihood of future offenses. Even so, the process can be intimidating for both minors and their parents, making it important to understand what to expect after a juvenile is charged with a crime.
Arrest or Citation – A juvenile case usually begins when a minor is arrested by law enforcement or issued a summons for an alleged offense. Depending on the circumstances, the juvenile may be released to a parent or guardian shortly after the incident or held temporarily in a juvenile detention facility. Factors such as the seriousness of the offense, the juvenile’s prior record, and whether the child is considered a danger to the community can affect whether detention is necessary.
Detention Hearing – If the juvenile is held in custody, the court will generally conduct a detention hearing soon after the arrest to determine whether continued detention is appropriate. During this hearing, the judge considers issues such as public safety, the juvenile’s likelihood of appearing for future court dates, and whether less restrictive alternatives are available. The court may order the juvenile released to a parent, impose conditions of release, or continue detention until the next stage of the case.
Filing of the Delinquency Petition – If prosecutors decide to move forward with the case, they file a delinquency petition outlining the criminal allegations against the juvenile. This document serves a similar purpose to criminal charges filed in adult court and identifies the offenses the prosecution believes the juvenile committed. The defense attorney will review the allegations, examine the available evidence, and begin developing a strategy for resolving or contesting the case.
Advisement and Initial Court Appearance – At the juvenile’s first court appearance, the judge explains the charges, the juvenile’s legal rights, and the possible consequences if the allegations are proven. The court also determines whether the juvenile has legal representation and addresses procedural matters moving the case forward. Parents or guardians are generally expected to attend these proceedings with their child.
Negotiations, Diversion, or Pretrial Proceedings – Many juvenile cases are resolved before a contested hearing. Depending on the circumstances, the prosecution may offer a diversion program, deferred adjudication, or plea agreement that allows the juvenile to avoid more severe consequences if certain conditions are successfully completed. If no agreement is reached, both sides continue preparing the case by reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and filing appropriate legal motions.
Adjudicatory Hearing – If the case proceeds to trial, it is decided during an adjudicatory hearing before a judge rather than a jury. The prosecutor must present evidence proving that the juvenile committed the alleged offense, while the defense has the opportunity to challenge the evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present its own evidence. If the judge determines that the allegations have not been proven, the case is dismissed. If the allegations are proven, the juvenile is adjudicated delinquent rather than convicted of a crime.
Dispositional Hearing – If the juvenile is adjudicated delinquent, the court schedules a dispositional hearing to determine the appropriate consequences. The judge considers factors such as the juvenile’s age, criminal history, family circumstances, school performance, and the seriousness of the offense before imposing a disposition. Depending on the case, the court may order probation, counseling, treatment programs, restitution, community service, electronic monitoring, placement with the Department of Youth Services, or detention.
Probation and Rehabilitation – Many juvenile cases end with probation rather than detention. During probation, the juvenile must comply with court-ordered conditions, which may include attending school regularly, participating in counseling or substance abuse treatment, completing community service, obeying curfews, and avoiding further legal trouble. Successfully completing probation and other court requirements may improve the juvenile’s eligibility to have their record sealed in the future.
Why Legal Representation Matters – The decisions made early in a juvenile case can have lasting consequences for a young person’s future. An experienced juvenile defense attorney can protect the juvenile’s constitutional rights, negotiate for diversion or other alternatives to formal adjudication, challenge improperly obtained evidence, and advocate for outcomes that minimize the long-term impact of the case. Having knowledgeable legal representation from the beginning can often make a significant difference in both the immediate outcome and the juvenile’s future opportunities.
Can a Juvenile Record Be Sealed or Expunged in Colorado?
One of the biggest concerns parents have after their child is arrested is whether the incident will continue to affect their future. A juvenile record can create obstacles when applying for college, scholarships, employment, housing, military service, or certain professional licenses. Fortunately, Colorado law provides opportunities for many juvenile records to be sealed after a case has ended, allowing young people to move forward without a public record following them into adulthood.
Unlike some states that broadly use the term “expungement,” Colorado primarily allows juvenile records to be sealed rather than expunged. When a record is sealed, it is no longer available to the general public, and in many situations, the individual may lawfully state that the juvenile case did not occur. However, certain government agencies and law enforcement entities may still have limited access to sealed records under specific circumstances authorized by law.
Whether a juvenile record is eligible to be sealed depends on several factors, including the type of offense, how the case was resolved, whether all court-ordered obligations have been completed, and whether the juvenile has been charged with any new offenses. Some records may qualify for automatic sealing, while others require filing a petition with the court and obtaining judicial approval. More serious offenses, including certain violent crimes and sex offenses, may have additional restrictions or may not qualify for record sealing.
The timing for sealing a juvenile record also varies from case to case. Some records may become eligible immediately after the successful completion of a sentence or diversion program, while others require waiting periods before a petition can be filed. Because the rules differ depending on the offense and the outcome of the case, it is important to review the specific circumstances of the juvenile’s record before pursuing record sealing.
An experienced juvenile defense attorney can help protect a child’s future from the beginning of the case by pursuing diversion programs, deferred adjudications, dismissals, or other resolutions that may improve eligibility for record sealing later. If a juvenile has already completed their case, an attorney can also determine whether the record qualifies for sealing and guide the family through the court process to help minimize the long-term impact of a youthful mistake.
What Are the Collateral Consequences of a Juvenile Crime in Colorado?
Many parents assume that because a case is handled in juvenile court, it will have little impact on their child’s future. While the juvenile justice system focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment, a juvenile adjudication can still have significant consequences that extend well beyond the courtroom. Even after a sentence has been completed, a juvenile record may continue to affect educational, employment, and personal opportunities.
One of the most immediate consequences is the effect a juvenile case can have on a student’s education. A juvenile may face school discipline, including suspension, expulsion, or restrictions on participating in extracurricular activities, athletics, or student organizations. Certain offenses may also affect eligibility for scholarships, educational programs, or admission to some colleges and universities that ask applicants to disclose disciplinary or criminal history.
A juvenile record may also create challenges when entering the workforce. Many employers conduct background checks before making hiring decisions, and although some juvenile records may eventually be sealed, they can still create obstacles if they remain accessible. Certain professional licenses, government jobs, military careers, and positions requiring security clearances may also involve additional scrutiny of an applicant’s criminal history.
Some juvenile offenses can affect a young person’s driving privileges or ability to obtain a driver’s license. Offenses involving alcohol, drugs, traffic violations, or certain criminal conduct may result in license suspension, revocation, or delayed driving privileges. Losing the ability to drive can make it more difficult for a juvenile to attend school, work, or other important activities.
A juvenile conviction may also have consequences for firearm rights and future criminal cases. Certain offenses can restrict a person’s ability to possess firearms, while repeated criminal conduct during adolescence may lead prosecutors to pursue harsher penalties if future offenses occur. In particularly serious cases, a juvenile may even be prosecuted as an adult, exposing them to substantially greater penalties than those typically imposed in juvenile court.
The good news is that many of these long-term consequences can be reduced or avoided with the right legal strategy. An experienced juvenile defense attorney can work to seek dismissals, diversion programs, deferred adjudications, or other favorable resolutions that protect a child’s future opportunities. When possible, an attorney can also assist families with pursuing juvenile record sealing so that a youthful mistake does not continue to impact the child’s education, career, and future for years to come
What Are the Sentencing Options for a Juvenile in Colorado?
Over the years, there’s been a crackdown on juvenile crimes. A drop in the underage crime rate has been attributed to the tough penalties that an underage person – especially a teen – faces when convicted. The justice system and lawmakers are convinced that coming down hard is deterring crime and by doing so it will stop convicted juvenile offenders from reoffending.
The penalties upon conviction for these juvenile crimes are unsympathetic. Violent crimes committed by minors can result in five years in a state detention facility. A juvenile may face up to two years of probation, on top of 45 days detention, sentencing to a “boot camp,” some form of public service, and restitution.
Although juvenile cases are handled differently than those in the adult system, young people can also face major penalties. In some cases, minors are subjected to very adult conditions, such as:
- Supervised probation
- Community service
- Restitution
- Counseling
- Lengthy sentences in detention facilities or stays in the Department of Youth Corrections
Parents face liabilities too for the criminal actions of their children. Under juvenile law, you may have to perform community service alongside your child. As a parent or guardian, you could be sued in a civil court for the damages that were sustained as a result of your child’s behavior. In addition to these consequences, you could be ordered to attend a parenting program and perform services for the victim of the crime.
What Is the Difference Between Juvenile and Adult Court in CO?
Most criminal defense attorneys concentrate their practice on adult cases and rarely practice in juvenile court. Because of this, they may lack the experience and knowledge to effectively represent children. Many of the rules and procedures are vastly different for juvenile court than adult court. For instance, there is no right to a jury trial, and there is no right to bail.
The State of Colorado realizes that children often make adult mistakes, but that they do not need to be punished in the same way as adults. The purpose of the Colorado criminal justice system is to provide early intervention for young offenders with the outcome being rehabilitation, not just punishment.
It is believed that minors have a greater chance of learning from their mistakes than adults do. For this reason, many of the legal consequences a young person faces are focused on getting mental health treatment, learning to obey rules, and adding structure into their day-to-day lives. At the same time, they may not have the same rights as adults such as having the right to a speedy trial since they are still dependent on their parents,
Because the differences between adult and juvenile court are so drastic, it’s highly recommended you seek a lawyer with juvenile defense experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Juvenile Crimes in Colorado
What age is considered a juvenile under Colorado law?
In most cases, a juvenile is anyone under the age of 18 who is accused of committing a criminal offense. Juvenile cases are generally handled in the juvenile court system, although certain serious offenses may allow prosecutors to seek adult prosecution under Colorado law.
Can a juvenile be tried as an adult in Colorado?
Yes. Although most juvenile cases remain in juvenile court, certain serious felony offenses may be prosecuted in adult criminal court depending on the juvenile’s age, the nature of the offense, and other statutory factors. Adult prosecution exposes a juvenile to significantly harsher penalties and the possibility of an adult criminal record.
What is the purpose of Colorado’s juvenile justice system?
The juvenile justice system is designed to balance accountability with rehabilitation. Rather than focusing solely on punishment, juvenile courts often emphasize treatment, education, counseling, and services intended to help young offenders avoid future criminal behavior while still protecting public safety.
What penalties can a juvenile receive after being found delinquent?
The penalties depend on the offense and the juvenile’s prior history. Possible dispositions include probation, restitution, community service, counseling, substance abuse treatment, electronic monitoring, placement in a juvenile detention facility, or commitment to the Colorado Department of Human Services’ Division of Youth Services.
Will a juvenile have to go to detention after being arrested?
Not necessarily. Many juveniles are released to a parent or guardian shortly after an arrest or citation. Whether a juvenile remains in detention depends on factors such as the seriousness of the allegations, prior offenses, risk of failing to appear in court, and whether the court believes the juvenile presents a danger to the community.
Can a juvenile record be sealed in Colorado?
Many juvenile records can eventually be sealed if certain legal requirements are met. Eligibility depends on factors such as the type of offense, the outcome of the case, completion of all court-ordered obligations, and whether the juvenile has committed additional offenses. Some records may qualify for automatic sealing, while others require filing a petition with the court.
Do parents have to attend juvenile court hearings?
Yes. In most juvenile delinquency cases, parents or legal guardians are expected to attend court proceedings with their child. The court may also require parents to participate in certain aspects of the case, including meetings, treatment plans, or parenting programs depending on the circumstances.
Can a juvenile receive diversion instead of being found delinquent?
In many cases, yes. First-time offenders and juveniles charged with less serious offenses may qualify for diversion or other alternative programs. Successfully completing a diversion program can often result in the case being dismissed, allowing the juvenile to avoid a formal delinquency adjudication.
Can a juvenile conviction affect college or future employment?
It can. Although juvenile records receive greater privacy protections than adult records, they may still affect college admissions, scholarship opportunities, military service, professional licensing, and employment in certain situations. Seeking a favorable resolution and pursuing record sealing when eligible can help reduce these long-term consequences.
Do juveniles have the right to a lawyer?
Yes. Juveniles have the right to be represented by an attorney throughout the delinquency process. Having an experienced juvenile defense lawyer is important because decisions made early in the case can affect the child’s future, including potential eligibility for diversion, sentencing outcomes, and the ability to seal the juvenile record later.
Additional Resources
Colorado Revised Statutes | Juvenile Court Rules – Visit the official website for the Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS) to read the legislation surrounding juvenile court. Access the site to read legal definitions, sentencing for juveniles, restitution for juvenile cases, and more.
Denver Juvenile Court – Visit the official website for the Colorado Judicial Branch to read up on the Denver juvenile courthouse. Access the site to learn the court’s address, contact information, presiding orders for the juvenile court stem, and resources for those attending.
The National Youth Rights Association on Juvenile Justice – This page offers comprehensive information on the juvenile justice system, including how the juvenile court system compares to adult courts, which rights juveniles lack compared to adults, and the flaws of the juvenile justice system.
Denver Lawyer for Juvenile Crimes | Colorado Juvenile Defense Attorney
When it comes to criminal cases, nothing is more worrisome to a parent than seeing their child get into legal trouble. Parents want the best for their kids, so helping them through this situation is critical. If your child or teen faces charges of committing a juvenile crime, call 303.725.0017 now.
As a criminal defense lawyer, Matthew Martin strives to protect the reputation of his juvenile clients as well as to safeguard their future opportunities. He works to keep sentences and convictions off of a young person’s record, and is sure to pay close attention to protecting eligibility for education loans and grants. Set up your first consultation with Attorney Martin today to set up an appointment in the Denver metropolitan area.
Call 303.725.0017 today or fill out our consultation form to set up your first consultation. Denvers Defense Attorney accepts clients throughout the greater Denver metropolitan area and surrounding counties including Douglas County, Broomfield County, Jefferson County, and Boulder County.