Contributing to Child Delinquency Lawyers

Contributing to Child Delinquency Lawyers: An In-Depth Look

What Are the Penalties for This Crime?

The specific penalties for contributing to the delinquency of a minor vary based on the state and circumstances of the offense. However, it’s generally prosecuted as a misdemeanor and carries penalties such as:

• Up to one year in jail
• Fines up to $2,500
• Probation or community service
• Mandatory counseling or education programs

In particularly serious cases involving very young children or dangerous crimes, contributing to delinquency may be charged as a felony. This can mean years in prison and much steeper fines.

As with any criminal charge, a conviction will also leave you with a permanent criminal record. This can impact future employment, housing, and other opportunities.

What Are Some Common Defenses?

Skilled criminal defense attorneys have several strategies they may use to fight charges of contributing to the delinquency of a minor:

Lack of Intent

In most states, you must have knowingly and intentionally encouraged or assisted in the child’s behavior to be convicted. Your lawyer may argue you had no intention of contributing to delinquency. For example, if a child secretly took drugs from your purse without your knowledge. [1]

You Made Reasonable Efforts to Prevent Delinquency

It’s not enough to just claim you didn’t intend for the child to break the law. You must also demonstrate you took reasonable steps to discourage the behavior. For example, having clear rules and consequences related to drug use in your home. [2]

The Child Was Not a “Minor”

In most states, the legal definition of a minor is someone under the age of 18. If the individual was 18 or older at the time, contributing to delinquency laws would not apply. [3]

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

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2024-03-18

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Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

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2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

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2024-03-12

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2024-02-28

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divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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You Were Unaware the Child Was Underage

Prosecutors must prove you knew the individual was under 18. If you can show you reasonably believed them to be older, this may invalidate the charges.

The Child’s Behavior Does Not Meet the Definition of “Delinquency”

Your attorney may argue the acts in question don’t qualify as delinquent behavior under the law. For example, letting your 17-year-old stay up an hour past curfew would not constitute criminal conduct. [4]

As you can see, an experienced criminal defense lawyer has many avenues to explore when fighting contributing to delinquency allegations. Don’t let fear or shame prevent you from exercising your rights.

What Should You Do if Facing Charges?

If you are under investigation or have been arrested for contributing to child delinquency, remain silent and immediately contact a criminal defense attorney. They can guide you through the process and develop the strongest defense strategy for your unique situation. Consider contacting defense lawyers who specialize in juvenile crimes and have experience fighting these types of allegations.