When your child faces legal trouble, the path forward can seem overwhelming. The Commonwealth’s juvenile justice system operates under different principles than adult courts, and securing effective representation from an experienced Massachusetts juvenile defense lawyer is crucial for protecting your child’s future.
Understanding Juvenile Law in Massachusetts
At Nate Amendola Defense, our criminal defense law firm in Massachusetts is well-known for our aggressive and impassioned defense of children and teenagers charged with crimes. If your child or a child over whom you have legal guardianship is arrested or charged with a crime, they need a juvenile lawyer by their side in juvenile court.
Having a compassionate legal advocate can make a difference in reducing or dismissing criminal charges. Juvenile law differs significantly from adult criminal law in several important ways:
- Focus on rehabilitation: The primary goal is helping young people overcome challenges rather than punishment
- Confidentiality protections: Juvenile proceedings are generally closed to the public
- Different terminology: The system uses terms like “delinquency” rather than “criminal charges”
- Alternative resolution options: Diversion programs are often available for first-time offenders
- Specialized court system: Cases are heard by judges with expertise in juvenile matters
Our Massachusetts juvenile defense attorneys have dedicated their careers to understanding these nuances. This specialized knowledge allows us to navigate the juvenile court system effectively while advocating for your child’s best interests at every stage.
For a free legal consultation with a juvenile defense lawyer serving Massachusetts, call (781) 740-0800
Why Massachusetts Juvenile Cases Require Specialized Defense
Juvenile cases in Massachusetts involve distinct legal strategies and considerations that general criminal defense attorneys may not possess. At Nate Amendola Defense, a dedicated juvenile lawyer in Massachusetts with our team brings several advantages:
- Knowledge of juvenile-specific defenses: Understanding developmental factors that may impact culpability
- Relationships with juvenile court personnel: Familiarity with juvenile court judges and prosecutors
- Experience with diversion programs: Awareness of alternative resolution options throughout Massachusetts
- Understanding of collateral consequences: Protecting against impacts on education, housing, and future opportunities
- Familiarity with mental health resources: Connecting families with appropriate support services
Our team of Massachusetts juvenile defense attorneys combines legal expertise with a compassionate approach designed specifically for young people facing legal challenges.
Key Stages in Massachusetts Juvenile Cases
First 24-48 Hours
We can help secure your child’s release and ensure evidence is preserved. Legal guidance is crucial to protect your child’s rights when speaking to police or school officials.
Pre-Arraignment
We will investigate the case, identify weaknesses, and negotiate possible diversion options to avoid court. Preparing for arraignment includes addressing bail or release conditions.
Post-Arraignment
We may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges and explore defense strategies, diversion programs, and rehabilitation options to improve court outcomes.
Massachusetts Juvenile Defense Lawyer Near Me (781) 740-0800
Juvenile Crimes We Defend Against
Our Massachusetts juvenile defense attorneys handle a comprehensive range of juvenile crimes, including:
Juvenile Sex Crimes
Sex crime charges against young people require special care. These cases can change a young person’s life forever. Our Massachusetts juvenile defense attorneys know how to handle these tough cases with sensitivity and skill.
Massachusetts Age of Consent: The Basic Facts
In Massachusetts, the age of consent is 16. This means:
- People who are 16 or older can legally agree to sexual activity with others who are also at least 16
- Anyone under 16 cannot legally agree to sexual activity, even if they said yes
- When both people are under 16, both could technically get in trouble, but prosecutors usually look at age differences before deciding what to do
- If one person is a teacher, coach, or counselor, the age of consent goes up to 18
Our juvenile lawyers in Massachusetts know these rules and how they affect juvenile cases.
Indecent Assault and Battery Cases
Massachusetts has two main types of indecent assault and battery charges for juveniles:
- Indecent assault and battery on a child under 14 is a serious crime. It can lead to being held in juvenile detention until age 18 and the possibility of mandatory sex offender registration.
- Indecent assault and battery on a person 14 or older is still serious but usually has lighter penalties.
Both charges involve touching someone in a sexual way without permission. When our young clients face these charges, a Massachusetts juvenile attorney with Nate Amendola Defense will review the facts with your child to understand what happened.
Statutory Rape Cases
In Massachusetts, statutory rape is called “rape and abuse of a child.” This charge occurs when there is sexual activity with someone under 16, even if they agree to it, as the law stipulates that minors under the age of 16 cannot consent.
These cases can be complicated for juvenile offenders:
- When both people are under 16, but only one minor is charged
- When the accused is over 16 but the other person is under 16
- When a relationship started legal,y but one person turned 16 while the other was still under 16
Massachusetts doesn’t have a special law for couples close in age. Our lawyers know how to argue for fair treatment in these cases.
Child Pornography Cases
With smartphones everywhere, more young people are facing charges for creating, having, or sharing explicit images of themselves or other minors. This is often called “sexting” when it happens between peers.
Under Massachusetts law, having or sharing sexual images of anyone under 18 is child pornography, even if:
- The person took pictures of themselves
- The images were shared with permission
- The person in possession of the images is the same age or younger than the person in the images
- The young person thought this was normal teenage behavior
Our lawyers have helped many young people get into education programs instead of facing criminal charges for these actions.
Revenge Porn Cases
Massachusetts now has laws against “revenge porn” – sharing private sexual images to hurt or embarrass someone. Young people accused of this can face serious consequences.
Juvenile revenge porn cases often involve:
- Sharing private images after a breakup
- Posting images in group chats or social media
- Sharing images that were originally sent privately
- Threatening to share images unless the person does what they want
Our lawyers understand how technology, teen development, and the law come together in these cases.
How We Handle Juvenile Sex Crimes
When we represent young people accused of sex offenses, our team:
- Acts quickly: We talk to prosecutors early to keep your child out of detention.
- Investigates thoroughly: We look at all evidence, including text messages and social media.
- Works with experts: We use psychologists and other experts to explain your child’s side.
- Protects privacy: We take extra steps to keep your child’s information private.
- Seeks alternatives: We try to get your child into programs that teach rather than punish.
- Provides education: We help families understand what happened and how to prevent future problems.
- Protects the future: We work to minimize effects on school, housing, and future opportunities.
Our lawyers know that most young people accused of sex offenses aren’t predators. They’re often confused about boundaries or giving in to peer pressure. We defend them strongly while also connecting families with help for any underlying issues.
If your child is facing sex offense charges in juvenile court, call Nate Amendola Defense right away for a private meeting with lawyers who understand these sensitive cases.
Property Crimes
Property crimes include theft, such as shoplifting and retail theft. Shoplifting and retail theft allegations can follow juveniles well beyond their teenage years if not properly defended, as even minor theft charges can impact future employment opportunities and college applications.
Vandalism and property damage charges often arise from impulsive decisions but can result in significant restitution requirements and criminal records that may affect housing applications in the future. Breaking and entering charges, even when no theft occurs, represent serious felony allegations that require immediate intervention by a Massachusetts juvenile defense lawyer to prevent potential commitment to juvenile detention facilities.
Violent Crimes and Crimes Against Persons
Assault and fighting charges frequently stem from school conflicts or social disputes but carry serious consequences, including potential school expulsion and juvenile detention if not properly defended by an experienced Massachusetts juvenile lawyer.
School violence incidents receive heightened scrutiny in today’s educational environment, often triggering both criminal charges and separate school disciplinary proceedings that require coordinated defense strategies. Weapons possession charges, even for items like pocket knives or replica weapons, are treated with particular severity in Massachusetts juvenile courts and often trigger mandatory school expulsion proceedings alongside criminal penalties.
School Threats
School threats are a major focus for Massachusetts law enforcement, prosecuted with increasing severity due to national safety concerns. Under Massachusetts G.L. c. 275 § 4, a criminal threat can lead to fines of up to $100 and six months in jail.
Many kids don’t realize that even joking or private statements on social media can result in serious charges like terroristic threats or felony threats. Authorities enforce a zero-tolerance policy, often disregarding intent or disciplinary history. These cases typically involve emergency school removal, pretrial detention, and mental health evaluations.
A skilled juvenile defense lawyer can challenge social media evidence, advocate for assessments over detention, and differentiate between genuine threats and misinterpreted remarks. School disciplinary actions often proceed alongside criminal cases, carrying lasting educational consequences.
Drug Charges
Juvenile drug charges vary based on the substance and intent. Massachusetts increasingly prosecutes prescription medication offenses involving shared or sold prescriptions. Even paraphernalia possession can lead to drug testing, probation, and court supervision, affecting education. DUI/OUI charges are especially harsh, with license suspension until age 21, mandatory substance abuse programs, and potential impacts on college and insurance.
The Hidden Impact of Juvenile Records in Massachusetts
Many parents mistakenly believe juvenile records automatically disappear at age 18 in Massachusetts. Without proper legal intervention, these records can prevent college admission, disqualify students from financial aid, create housing barriers, limit employment opportunities, and impact future adult criminal cases.
Our Massachusetts juvenile defense lawyers specialize in record sealing and expungement to ensure youthful mistakes don’t become permanent obstacles.
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Our Approach: Combining Juvenile Justice with Holistic Support
At Nate Amendola Defense, what sets our Massachusetts juvenile defense lawyers apart is our comprehensive approach:
- Thorough case evaluation: We examine every aspect of the allegations and evidence
- Personalized defense strategy: Each defense plan is tailored to the specific circumstances and needs of the individual child
- Family involvement: We keep parents informed and engaged throughout the process
- Educational advocacy: Protecting your child’s right to education during legal proceedings
- Mental health coordination: Connecting families with appropriate assessment and treatment resources
- Long-term planning: Looking beyond the immediate case to safeguard future opportunities
This multifaceted approach addresses the legal charges against your child and the underlying factors that may have contributed to the situation.
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Statewide Massachusetts Juvenile Defense Representation
Our Massachusetts juvenile defense lawyers serve families throughout the Commonwealth, including:
- Greater Boston and surrounding communities
- Cape Cod and the Islands
- South Shore communities
No matter where you are in Massachusetts, your child’s case is being handled, our experienced juvenile defense team is prepared to provide local representation with statewide expertise.
Taking the First Step: Consulting with a Massachusetts Juvenile Defense Lawyer
If your child is facing charges in the Massachusetts juvenile system, time is of the essence. Contact Nate Amendola Defense today to schedule a confidential consultation with a dedicated Massachusetts juvenile defense attorney. During this meeting, we will:
- Listen to your concerns without judgment
- Explain how Massachusetts juvenile law applies to your situation
- Outline potential defense strategies
- Answer your questions about the juvenile court process
- Discuss immediate steps to protect your child’s interests
Our Massachusetts juvenile lawyers are ready to guide your family through this challenging time with expertise, compassion, and unwavering advocacy.
Protect your child’s rights today by calling our office or completing our online contact form to arrange your free, confidential consultation with the team at Nate Amendola Defense.
Call or text (781) 740-0800 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
