Juvenile Crimes Lawyer in New Jersey

Let us help you prove your innocence.

Juvenile Crime
Juvenile Crime

Anytime a child faces criminal charges is a serious matter. Given the high stakes and consequences associated with a conviction, your child and your family need the strongest support you can get.

Jason Volet’s experience at a glance:

  • Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Criminal Trial Attorney
  • 19+ years experience: handing all Felonies & Misdemeanors
  • Former Assistant Prosecutor in Monmouth County
  • 4000+ Cases as a prosecutor & Criminal Defense Attorney

Unlike many other attorneys throughout the state, Mr. Volet focuses exclusively on the practice of criminal law. This exclusive focus allows him to refine his defense strategies and understand the practical aspects of the law in their finest detail. This in-depth knowledge can make an immeasurable difference in your case.

At the Law Office of Jason A. Volet, we have more than two decades of experience handling serious cases within the juvenile justice system. Contact us 24/7 to arrange a free consultation with an experienced and dedicated juvenile crimes lawyer in New Jersey.

What Types of Juvenile Crimes Do We Defend?

The Law Office of Jason A. Volet defends young people against charges resulting from a wide range of offenses. You can turn to our team for help with:

Can My Child Be Detained for a Juvenile Offense?

Police may detain your child for a juvenile offense. However, detention is not automatic. Your child has a right to have a hearing the day after arrest. Typically, a family court judge will review the charges and determine if the child should remain in custody.

Sometimes, a court may choose alternatives like release to a parent or placement in a program. While police can question your child without your being present, your child still has constitutional rights that a lawyer can help protect.

Could My Child Be Charged as an Adult?

Yes, your child could be charged in adult criminal court under certain circumstances. New Jersey’s family court system typically handles juvenile cases. However, if the child is at least 15 and accused of a serious offense such as robbery, sexual assault, or a violent crime, the prosecutor may request a waiver to adult court. If granted, the case proceeds in the adult system and exposes your child to harsher penalties and fewer rehabilitative options.

What Are the Differences Between the New Jersey Juvenile and Adult Court Systems?

A New Jersey teen with a juvenile delinquency charge.A few significant differences exist between the juvenile and adult court systems in New Jersey. A judge, rather than a jury, typically resolves juvenile cases. The focus in the juvenile system is more on rehabilitation than punishment.

While young people have similar due process rights to those of adults, juvenile defense lawyers must understand the law and the unique needs of adolescents. They must be able to guide youth through critical decisions, clearly explain legal issues, and understand the broader systems affecting their lives.

What Is the Juvenile Court Process in New Jersey?

Juvenile court matters proceed according to a defined protocol:

  • Police question the youth, being mindful of their Miranda rights and their right to counsel.
  • The youth is detained or, as in many cases, released to their parents.
  • If detained, the youth must have a hearing within 24 to 40 hours, after which they’re released to their parents or detained until arraignment.
  • Juvenile criminal offense charges are officially filed at the arraignment.
  • During the adjudication, the judge rules on the youth’s delinquency.
  • If adjudicated delinquent, the youth may be held at a juvenile detention facility or released to their parents to await disposition.
  • At the disposition hearing, a court may order the youth to serve detention, assign them to residential treatment, give them probation, or require them to go through a diversionary program.
  • Upon completion of their program, the court discharges the youth’s case.

What Are Some Possible Defense Strategies for My Child’s Juvenile Crimes Charges?

When preparing to defend your child against juvenile criminal charges, the Law Office of Jason A. Volet will thoroughly investigate the case and gather evidence to prepare the most appropriate defense strategy possible.

Some defense strategies we may take include arguing that:

New Jersey juvenile crimes cases.

  • Police violated your child’s constitutional and/or Miranda rights
  • Police obtained evidence through an illegal search and seizure
  • Mental health challenges affected your child’s behavior
  • Substance abuse affected your child’s behavior
  • Your child’s home life contributed to their actions.

What Steps Should I Take If My Child Is Arrested?

If a law enforcement agency arrests your child, the situation can feel overwhelming. Taking the steps early can make a difference in the outcome.

Here are actions to take immediately if your child is arrested:

  • Stay calm and gather basic information about the arrest.
  • Do not allow your child to answer police questions without a lawyer present.
  • Contact an experienced juvenile defense attorney right away.
  • Attend the detention hearing, which usually occurs the next day.
  • Follow the court’s instructions carefully and keep detailed records of all proceedings.

What Is a Deferred Adjudication or Disposition?

In juvenile cases, deferred adjudication or disposition allows a young person to avoid a judgment if they meet certain conditions, such as counseling, community service, or probation. Successful completion means the court may dismiss the charges and allow the child to move forward without a record.

Frequently Asked Questions

As a Monmouth County Juvenile Crime Lawyer I often get calls from parents telling me that their child was arrested for theft. In order to prove theft, the state would need to show that your child intended to take that item intentionally. I advise clients as a Monmouth County Juvenile Crime Lawyer that hiring an attorney who is experienced in these cases is very important.

If your child has been arrested for theft, watch this video and contact our experienced Monmouth County Juvenile Crime Lawyer.





This short informational video was brought to you by Jason Volet, an experienced New Jersey Juvenile Crime Lawyer.

As a Monmouth County Juvenile Crimes Attorney I often speak to people who have been caught drinking underage at a bar. If you child is being charged with underage drinking at a bar then they can be charged with using a fraudulent ID. I have advised parents of clients that this ends up being a disorderly person’s offense and will head to municipal court.

If you have been caught drinking underage at a bar, watch this video and contact our experienced Monmouth County Juvenile Crimes Attorney.





This short informational video was brought to you by Jason Volet, an experienced Monmouth County Juvenile Crimes Attorney.

  • If your child is found guilty or pleads guilty to a first-degree offense, they face up to four years in the juvenile jail.
  • Second-degree offenses are up to three years, third-degree offenses are up to two years, and third-degree offenses face up to one year.
  • A disorderly person’s offense can be up to six months in juvenile jail.




This informational blog post was provided by Jason A. Volet, an experienced New Jersey Juvenile Crime Attorney.

  • All offenses by juveniles which would be heard in a municipal court for an adult.
  • Regardless of what type of charge it is, it is all heard in the family division in the superior court in whatever county in New Jersey where that child lives.
  • It’s not where the child is charged, but it’s actually the county where that child lives.




This informational blog post was provided by Jason A. Volet, an experienced New Jersey Juvenile Crime Lawyer.

I am often asked as a New Jersey DWI Attorney what can happen if you are arrested while driving underage. If your BAC is greater than .08, which is the legal limit in New Jersey, you will be charged with a formal adult DWI. I advise clients as a New Jersey DWI Attorney that if your blood level is between .01 and less than .08, while technically not over the limit, you would be charged with an underage DWI. The benefit of having an underage DWI is that it does not technically count as a first DWI.

If you have been arrested for drinking underage while driving, contact our experienced New Jersey DWI Attorney.





This informational blog post was provided by Jason A. Volet, an experienced New Jersey DWI Attorney.

Will My Child Be Able to Return to Their School?

A juvenile charge does not always prevent a child from returning to their school. However, schools may impose disciplinary actions depending on the nature of the offense. Private institutions may have policies that bar students from returning. In some cases, youths may have to enroll in alternative education programs. Your child’s lawyer can address school-related concerns.

Can Juvenile Charges Be Sealed or Expunged?

Certain juvenile records can be sealed or expunged. Whether your child’s charges are eligible depends on the offense’s nature and how much time has passed. For many nonviolent crimes, a juvenile may apply for expungement after several years without further trouble. Serious crimes, such as violent or sexual offenses, are generally not eligible. Expungement can provide a fresh start by limiting access to your child’s record, which may otherwise affect their future education, employment, or housing opportunities.

Is There a Statute of Limitations for Juvenile Crimes in New Jersey?

The New Jersey juvenile court system handles cases for children under 18. The precise deadline for adjudicating your child’s case depends on the nature of the offense and other factors. Your child’s attorney can help you understand their case’s deadlines and other legal complexities.

Contact a New Jersey Juvenile Crimes Criminal Defense Attorney

If your child faces charges in New Jersey’s juvenile court system, you need experienced and dedicated legal representation to protect their rights and advocate for a favorable outcome. Contact the Law Office of Jason A. Volet today for a consultation and learn more about how we support our clients and what we can do for your child.

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Get Help from a New Jersey Juvenile Defense Lawyer Today

Your child’s future is important to you. It is important to Jason A. Volet, too. You can count on him to carefully review your case, explain your child’s rights and options, answer your questions and – above all – work diligently to pursue the best outcome possible. You and your child deserve that kind of passionate and professional legal defense. Don’t wait to get legal help. Your child’s case needs to be addressed immediately. Call The Law Office of Jason A. Volet today or reach us online – any day of the week, any time of day. We serve clients in Freehold, Neptune and throughout Monmouth County and surrounding areas in New Jersey. We are ready to get to work for you today.