Juvenile

Juvenile criminal cases ordinarily consist of matters where an individual under eighteen years of age is charged with a violation of the criminal law. In New Jersey, juvenile criminal cases are heard under the title of "Juvenile Delinquency Actions" in the Family Part of the Superior Court. Similar to adult criminal cases, Juvenile Delinquency Actions are divided into four categories, called "degrees". First Degree cases are the most serious and an adjudication results in the imposition of the most serious penalties. An example of a First Degree case would be armed robbery and, upon adjudication, a Court can impose a sentence of four years in the custody of the State. Second Degree cases are slightly less serious and an adjudication results in the imposition of less serious penalties. An example of a Second Degree case would be unarmed robbery and, upon adjudication, a Court can impose a sentence of three years in the custody of the State. Third Degree cases are less serious and an adjudication results in the imposition of less serious penalties. An example of a Third Degree case would be burglary of a residence and, upon adjudication, a Court can impose a sentence of two years in the custody of the State. Fourth Degree cases are the least serious and an adjudication results in the imposition of the least serious penalties. An example of a Fourth Degree case would be a minor theft and, upon adjudication, a Court can impose a sentence of one year in the custody of the State. In addition to placement in custody, upon adjudication, a Court can impose financial and other penalties which vary in accordance with the degree and the nature of the offense. Under New Jersey law, adjudication on certain matters also requires imposition of other very serious consequences.

All juvenile cases have one thing in common: adjudication can result in the child being placed in the custody of the State for a long time. If your child finds him/herself on the "wrong side of the law", you need an attorney who will fight to obtain the best possible result for your child. You need someone who knows the law, who knows the system, and who has a proven record of success. Jay A. Yanavok, Esq. is a seasoned juvenile criminal defense attorney who spent ten years as an affiliate ("Pool Attorney") with the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender. Jay also previously worked with The Cochran Firm (founded by Johnnie Cockran, the lead attorney on the O.J. Simpson murder trial). Jay knows the law, knows the system, and is available to assist your child to obtain the best result possible.

If your child is charged with a crime, do not hesitate to call Jay at 973-598-9580 or, if you prefer, e-mail him directly at Jay@YanavokLaw.com, by using the link at the top of this page.