Top Ithaca, NY Juvenile Law Lawyers Near You

Dealing with Juvenile Law Issues?

If your child is facing criminal charges, it is important to get the best legal representation possible because a criminal record will follow your child as each educational and employment opportunity becomes available. Consulting with an Ithaca juvenile attorney will be able to help your family reach a resolution.

Different Types of Juvenile Charges

Juveniles can be charged with any criminal offense; same as an adult, but their cases are usually handled in the Juvenile Courts. Some juvenile law charges include underage possession of alcohol, drug crimes, gang involvement, vandalism and juvenile DUI. Other juvenile law related issues include disciplinary actions at school and foster care issues.

A juvenile lawyer can also provide direction for juveniles and their families to programs that will help the juvenile’s defense by minimizing the risk of the youth from re-offending and preventing future criminal behavior issues.

What sort of issues can I seek legal help with?

Specialized legal help is available for most legal issues. Each case is unique; seeking legal help is a smart first step toward understanding your legal situation and seeking the best path toward resolution for your case. An experienced lawyer understands the local laws surrounding your case and what your best legal options might be. More importantly, there are certain situations and circumstances – such as being charged with a crime – where you should always seek experienced legal help.

What to Expect from an Initial Consultation

• Seek to determine whether the attorney can represent you. There is no one-size-fits-all legal solution and it may turn out your needs are better served by an attorney in a different specialization.
• It’s important to find a legal ally who is both competent in the law and someone you can trust to protect your interests.
• Discuss how the practice’s billing works and discuss possible additional charges or fees that may arise during or after the resolution of your case.

An attorney consultation should provide you with enough information so that you can make an informed decision on whether to proceed with legal help.

How much does it cost to hire an attorney?

In general, how much an attorney costs will often depend on these four factors: billing method and pricing structure, type of legal work performed, law firm prestige, and attorney experience. Depending on the legal issue you are facing, an attorney may bill you by the hour, settle on a flat fee, or enter into a contingency fee agreement. The type of legal work you need help with will also play a role in cost incurred.

Common legal terms explained

Plaintiff – a person or party who brings a lawsuit against another person(s) or party/parties in a court of law. Private persons or parties can only file suit in civil court.

Judgment – A decision of the court. Also known as a decree or order. Judgments handed down by the court are usually binding on the parties before the court.