24/7 call for a free consultation 212-300-5196

AS SEEN ON

EXPERIENCEDTop Rated

YOU MAY HAVE SEEN TODD SPODEK ON THE NETFLIX SHOW
INVENTING ANNA

When you’re facing a federal issue, you need an attorney whose going to be available 24/7 to help you get the results and outcome you need. The value of working with the Spodek Law Group is that we treat each and every client like a member of our family.

Client Testimonials

5

THE BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR.

The BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR!!! Todd changed our lives! He’s not JUST a lawyer representing us for a case. Todd and his office have become Family. When we entered his office in August of 2022, we entered with such anxiety, uncertainty, and so much stress. Honestly we were very lost. My husband and I felt alone. How could a lawyer who didn’t know us, know our family, know our background represents us, When this could change our lives for the next 5-7years that my husband was facing in Federal jail. By the time our free consultation was over with Todd, we left his office at ease. All our questions were answered and we had a sense of relief.

schedule a consultation

Blog

Shoplifting and Theft Charges Against Juveniles in Queens Family Court

March 21, 2024 Uncategorized

Shoplifting and Theft Charges Against Juveniles in Queens Family Court

Shoplifting and theft charges can have serious consequences for juveniles in Queens, New York. However, the specific outcomes depend significantly on factors like the child’s age, intent, and past record.

Juvenile Justice System Basics

New York State’s juvenile justice system handles cases involving children aged 7-15 who are accused of acts that would be crimes if committed by adults. These children are deemed “juvenile delinquents.”Juveniles do not face criminal charges. Instead, their cases go through family court, where the goal is rehabilitation rather than punishment. According to New York Courts, family court proceedings are confidential and records can often be sealed to avoid future prejudice.

How Shoplifting Charges Are Handled

Shoplifting is a common charge against juveniles in Queens and elsewhere. According to Reddit users, retail theft in New York City involves everything from makeup to laundry detergent.If caught shoplifting, juveniles typically face delinquency charges in family court rather than criminal prosecution. The court will then decide what supervision, counseling, or placement the child needs to get back on track.Potential family court dispositions can include:

  • Counseling
  • Community service
  • Probation
  • Restitution payments

More serious or repeat offenses may result in placement out of the home for rehabilitation. But the focus is on support rather than punishment.

Getting Legal Help

Facing shoplifting charges is stressful for both juveniles and parents. Hiring an attorney experienced in juvenile defense ensures children’s rights are protected throughout the legal process.Key attorney responsibilities include:

  • Guiding families through the family court process
  • Advocating for counseling and diversion programs
  • Negotiating to minimize penalties
  • Sealing records to avoid future prejudice

Queens families needing a juvenile shoplifting lawyer can find attorneys using resources like Avvo and the New York State Bar Association.

Shoplifting Prevention Tips

While some juvenile offenses stem from larger issues like trauma or peer pressure, parents can take proactive steps to prevent shoplifting and theft:

  • Talk about consequences – Have open conversations about the legal, financial, and personal consequences of stealing.
  • Set expectations – Establish clear rules and expectations around behavior.
  • Keep kids engaged – Boredom can lead to trouble, so keep children occupied with sports, hobbies, jobs, etc.
  • Know their friends – Peer influences often drive juvenile misbehavior.
  • Get help if needed – For chronic issues, seek professional counseling and support.

What About 16-17 Year Olds?

New York’s “Raise the Age” law now considers 16-17 year olds “adolescent offenders” instead of adults. According to NY Courts, their cases start in youth courts overseen by family court judges.The goal is rehabilitation focused on education, counseling, and family engagement. Adolescent offender cases can also transfer to family court, avoiding permanent criminal records.So while shoplifting charges can derail young lives, New York’s juvenile and adolescent offender laws aim to intercept youthful mistakes using support instead of punishment.

More Resources

For more on juvenile shoplifting and theft charges in New York, see:

Lawyers You Can Trust

Todd Spodek

Founding Partner

view profile

RALPH P. FRANCHO, JR

Associate

view profile

JEREMY FEIGENBAUM

Associate Attorney

view profile

ELIZABETH GARVEY

Associate

view profile

CLAIRE BANKS

Associate

view profile

RAJESH BARUA

Of-Counsel

view profile

CHAD LEWIN

Of-Counsel

view profile

Criminal Defense Lawyers Trusted By the Media

schedule a consultation
Schedule Your Consultation Now