Blog
Shoplifting and Theft Charges Against Juveniles in Queens Family Court
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: