Kerrville Juvenile Crime Defense Attorney

Providing Aggressive Defense for Juvenile Cases in Texas

Texas law defines juvenile crimes as those committed by a person under the age of 17. Depending on the circumstances, a juvenile may be tried as an adult. If a juvenile is tried in juvenile court, the judge may order the child to receive counseling, community service, or other types of punishment. If the juvenile is found guilty, the judge may also place the child on probation and order the child to pay restitution for any damages.

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, protecting your child's future is our top priority. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges that juvenile cases present, we are here to provide unwavering support, guidance, and effective legal representation to help pursue the best possible outcomes for your child.

Charged with a juvenile crime? Contact a Kerrville juvenile defense lawyer for a confidential case review at (830) 590-0589.

What Is Juvenile Crime in Texas?

In Texas, a juvenile is a person under the age of 17. A juvenile may be charged with a crime even if they did not realize what they were doing was illegal or if they did not fully understand the consequences of their actions.

Examples of juvenile crimes include:

• Drug Offenses: Allegations involving the possession, distribution, or sale of controlled substances.
• Property Crimes: Charges related to theft, vandalism, or burglary.
• Violent Crimes: Cases involving assault, battery, or other violent acts.
• Sex Offenses: Allegations of sexual misconduct or offenses, such as sexting.
• Underage Drinking and DUI: Charges related to alcohol-related offenses and driving under the influence.
• School-Related Offenses: Disciplinary actions and criminal charges stemming from incidents at school.
• Runaway and Truancy Cases: Legal issues related to minors leaving home without permission or chronic school absenteeism.

If a juvenile is between the ages of 10 and 17, a law enforcement officer may arrest the juvenile without a warrant. If a juvenile is younger than 10 or older than 17, a law enforcement officer may not arrest the juvenile without a warrant.

There are some situations in which a juvenile may be tried as an adult. These include situations in which a juvenile is accused of committing a serious crime such as murder, aggravated assault, or a forcible felony with the use of a deadly weapon.

What Are the Penalties for Juvenile Crimes in Texas?

The penalties for juvenile crimes depend on the circumstances of the crime, the age of the juvenile, and the criminal history of the juvenile. In addition, the judge may order the juvenile to complete community service, pay restitution, or receive counseling.

Examples of possible penalties for juvenile crimes include:

• Confinement in a juvenile detention facility
• Placement on probation
• Restitution for damages
• Community service
• Counseling
• Restrictions on activities

If a juvenile is tried as an adult, the penalties are similar to those for adult crimes. For example, the adult court may sentence the juvenile to prison, probation, fines, and restitution. In addition, the court may order the juvenile to receive counseling or treatment.

Beyond these direct penalties, a juvenile adjudication can affect school discipline, access to certain extracurricular activities, and future applications for college or jobs in and beyond the Hill Country. We frequently work with families to pursue options such as diversion, deferred prosecution, or treatment-focused resolutions that may reduce long-term consequences for a young person, while still addressing concerns raised by the court and the community.

What To Do After A Juvenile Arrest In Kerrville

When your child is arrested in Kerrville, the first hours can feel confusing and frightening, but the steps you take during this time can shape how the case moves forward. You may be dealing with officers from the Kerrville Police Department or Kerr County Sheriff’s Office and receiving calls about detention hearings or intake at local juvenile facilities. Staying calm, limiting your child’s statements to law enforcement until you have legal guidance, and gathering basic information about the charges and where your child is being held are key first actions.

As soon as you are able, it is wise to consult with a juvenile criminal lawyer Kerrville families can turn to for clear guidance on the local juvenile process. An attorney can advise you about what to say, how to communicate with school officials, and what documents or records might be helpful, such as report cards, medical information, or prior counseling history. Having legal representation in place before the first court setting allows your family to advocate for release conditions that support your child’s stability at home and in school while the case is pending.

There are several practical steps you can take in the days following an arrest to support your child and prepare for meetings with probation officers, prosecutors, and the court:

• Write down events: As soon as possible, record what your child and any witnesses remember about the incident so details are not lost over time.
• Gather background information: Collect school records, awards, medical or counseling summaries, and letters from teachers, coaches, or mentors that show your child’s positive qualities.
• Monitor school and behavior: Stay in close contact with your child’s school and watch for changes in behavior, mood, or grades that might signal stress related to the case.

We know that for families in Kerrville and surrounding Hill Country communities, a juvenile case can disrupt work, school, and everyday life. By partnering with a legal team that understands local courts and juvenile procedures, you put your child in the best position to move through the process with support, structure, and a plan to minimize long-term harm from a difficult situation.