When a child or teenager is accused of a crime in Birmingham, Alabama, it can be a terrifying and confusing experience for the entire family. The juvenile justice system is different from the adult criminal system, with its own unique procedures, terminology, and goals. While the primary focus is on rehabilitation rather than punishment, the consequences of a juvenile case can still be severe and can have a lasting impact on your child’s future, affecting their educational opportunities, career prospects, and even their personal freedom.

Protecting your child during this critical time is paramount. You need a juvenile defense attorney who not only understands the law but also knows how to navigate the juvenile court system in Jefferson and Shelby counties. At Mark Bishop Turner Attorney At Law, we are dedicated to defending the rights of young people. We believe that a mistake made as a minor should not define the rest of their life. We provide compassionate, skilled, and effective representation designed to protect your child’s future and guide your family through this challenging process.

How the Alabama Juvenile Justice System Works
Understanding the key differences in the juvenile system is crucial:

• Focus on Rehabilitation: The goal is to correct a child’s behavior and provide them with the support and resources they need to become a productive member of society.
• Terminology: Children are not “arrested” but “taken into custody.” They are not “convicted” but “adjudicated delinquent.” They don’t receive a “sentence” but a “disposition.”
• Adjudication Hearings: Instead of a jury trial, cases are heard by a juvenile court judge in a proceeding called an adjudication hearing. The judge listens to the evidence and decides whether the child committed the alleged offense.
• Confidentiality: Juvenile court proceedings and records are generally confidential and not open to the public, which helps protect the child’s privacy.

Potential Consequences of a Juvenile Case
Even with a focus on rehabilitation, the outcomes of a juvenile case can be serious. A judge has a wide range of dispositional options, including:

• Informal Adjustment or Diversion Programs: For first-time or minor offenses, the case may be handled informally with requirements like counseling, community service, or writing an apology letter, without a formal adjudication.
• Probation: The child is supervised by a juvenile probation officer and must comply with certain conditions, such as a curfew, regular school attendance, and drug testing.
• Restitution: The child may be ordered to pay for any damages they caused.
• Placement in a Group Home or Foster Care.
• Commitment to the Department of Youth Services (DYS): This is the juvenile equivalent of prison and is reserved for the most serious offenses.

The Risk of Being Tried as an Adult (Certification)
For very serious felony offenses (like murder or robbery) committed by a child who is 14 years or older, the prosecutor may file a motion to “certify” or transfer the case to the adult criminal court. If the transfer is granted, your child will face the same procedures and harsh penalties as an adult, including the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence. Fighting a transfer motion is one of the most critical functions of a skilled juvenile defense attorney.

Our Approach to Juvenile Defense in Birmingham
Our defense strategy is twofold: we fight the allegations while always keeping the child’s best interests at the forefront.

• Protecting Your Child’s Rights: Minors have constitutional rights, just like adults. We ensure your child was not illegally questioned, searched, or coerced into a confession. We will challenge any evidence that was obtained in violation of their rights.
• Fighting the Allegations: We conduct a thorough investigation into the facts of the case, interview witnesses, and analyze the evidence. We prepare to challenge the prosecution’s case at the adjudication hearing and hold them to their burden of proof.
• Advocating for the Best Outcome: We understand that the judge wants to know who your child is, not just what they allegedly did. We present a complete picture of your child, highlighting their positive attributes, school performance, family support, and potential. We work to secure diversion programs or other alternatives to formal adjudication whenever possible to keep their record clean.
• Sealing and Expunging Juvenile Records: We can help you navigate the process of sealing or expunging your child’s juvenile record once they are eligible, providing them with a truly fresh start.

Your Child’s Future is Too Important to Risk.
If your son or daughter has been taken into custody or is facing charges in juvenile court, do not wait. It is essential to have an experienced legal advocate on your side from the very beginning. Mark Bishop Turner will guide you and your child every step of the way, fighting to protect their rights and secure the best possible future.

Contact Mark Bishop Turner Attorney At Law today for a confidential consultation to discuss your child’s case.