How the Connecticut Juvenile Justice System Works

Juvenile Defense Attorney Serving Stamford, Fairfield and Norwalk CT

At the Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner, we have significant experience representing juveniles who have been charged with criminal offenses. If you are a parent seeking help for your child, or if you have questions about the juvenile justice system, we invite you to schedule a free consultation where we can discuss your legal options.

Understanding the Juvenile Justice System

In Connecticut you are considered a juvenile up to age 18. By law, juvenile facilities are maintained separate and apart from regular adult criminal matters. With very few exceptions, juvenile matters are confidential. That means that the juvenile, his or her attorney, his or her parents, and any involved court personnel will be the only persons present at a juvenile court proceeding.

A juvenile has many of the same legal and constitutional rights as an adult in Connecticut:

• The right to remain silent
• The right to an attorney of his or her choosing
• The right to a trial and is presumed innocent until proven guilty

At least one parent or guardian must be present at all stages of this process.

Although the juvenile matter is technically confidential, particular care must be taken to insure that the final resolution of the case will not impact any future school or employment opportunities.

The juvenile has the right to be represented at all states of the proceeding. It is of crucial importance that the juvenile be apprised of his or her legal rights at the earliest possible time in order to avoid further harmful effects of the process on his or her future.

Contact a Stamford Juvenile Defense Lawyer

Call the Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner at 203-348-5846 or contact us online for a free consultation.