Juvenile Justice and Sex Crimes Against Children

 Posted on July 19, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Texas is known for its harsh treatment of both adults and juveniles who are accused of sex crimes against children. Juveniles, defined as minors between the ages of 10 and 16, are subjected to a juvenile justice process that is similar to the justice system for adults. However, there are some significant differences between the juvenile justice system and the adult justice system, particularly when it comes to prosecuting sex crimes against children. Consult a Texas juvenile sex crime defense attorney if your child has been accused of committing a sex crime against a child.

What Sex Crimes Can a Juvenile Be Charged With?

A juvenile can be charged with most of the same sex crimes an adult can, including:

• Rape

• Sexual assault

• Aggravated sexual assault

• Sexual assault of a minor

• Possession of child pornography

• Indecent exposure to a child

• Indecent contact with a child

When a juvenile commits a crime, it is referred to by Texas law as delinquent conduct. The penalties for delinquent crimes vary in severity depending on several factors, including the age of the victim, whether force was used, and the age difference between the accused and the victim. In some cases, if the crime is particularly severe, a judge may decide that a juvenile aged 14 or older will be charged as an adult.

Key Differences in Juvenile vs. Adult Court

There are several key differences between how a sex crime against a child is adjudicated in juvenile court as opposed to an adult court:

• An adult charged with a crime is called a "defendant," while a juvenile is called a "respondent."

• When an adult is punished for a crime he or she is given a "sentence," while a juvenile is given a "disposition."

• An adult can waive his or her right to an attorney. A juvenile must be represented by a lawyer in court.

• A juvenile must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at court hearings.

• An adult may be sentenced to a variety of punishments. A disposition for a juvenile will be one of the following: probation; a determinate sentence of up to 40 years in detention; or an indeterminate sentence with no fixed term.

• An adult who is convicted of a sex crime against children is registered as a sex offender for life. A juvenile who is convicted — which the law calls "adjudicated delinquent" — may be registered as a sex offender for up to 10 years.

• An adult does not have the option to seal his or her court records. In some cases, a juvenile may petition a court to seal his or her records if certain requirements are met.

Contact a Plano, TX Juvenile Sex Crime Defense Attorney

If a juvenile is accused of a sex crime against a child, it does not mean that he or she will receive a more lenient sentence than an adult. At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we dedicate heavy legal resources to protecting the rights of our juvenile clients. If your child has been accused of a sex crime against a child, hire a Collin County, TX juvenile sex crime defense lawyer who will get you the best outcome possible. Call 214-544-0061 to schedule a free consultation with one of our excellent lawyers today.