Will Juvenile Offenses Stay on My Record Forever?

 Posted on November 18, 2024 in Juvenile Crimes

Inevitably, we all make mistakes in our youth. If you had a criminal history as a teenager, you might have serious concerns about your future, asking questions like, Will an employer hold my record against me? Will I have a permanent criminal record? These questions might haunt you if you are looking to start fresh and change from the person you used to be. Connecticut has clear laws about juvenile crimes, and depending on your circumstances, it may or may not follow you into adulthood. If you are facing criminal charges as a juvenile offender, or are looking to clear your name after the fact, a Connecticut criminal defense lawyer can provide skilled representation.

Connecticut’s Ruling About Crimes Committed as a Minor

Connecticut separates non-adult criminals into two separate categories: "juvenile offenders" and "youthful offenders." The former category consists of anyone younger than 18 who commits a criminal offense not serious enough to be taken to adult courts. The latter category consists of those age 17 or younger who are tried as adults for a criminal offense for the first time without any prior history of felony convictions.

In either case, Connecticut is more lenient with children who commit crimes, with the goal of moving them along the right path rather than punishing them. Juvenile offenders can have their records erased once they turn 18, provided they do not have a felony conviction on their record or pending charges against them, and enough time has passed since being discharged (two to four years, depending on the crime.) Youthful offenders are eligible to have their records erased when they turn 21, as long as they complete a successful period of probation and do not incur any more felony convictions before turning 21.

What Crimes Are Exempt From Youthful Offender Status?

Certain serious offenses will result in you being tried in court as an adult even if you committed it as a minor. Some of these offenses include:

• Sexual assault

• Murder

• First-degree arson

• Home invasion

• First-degree kidnapping

• Assault of a pregnant woman resulting in termination of pregnancy

These crimes carry serious penalties with the possibility of 10 years or more in prison. Additionally, a conviction of any of these crimes is not able to be erased under Connecticut’s "clean slate" law. As a general rule, minors will not be eligible for youthful offender status for any Class A felony or Class B sexual assault charge.

Speak with a Stamford, CT Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you are worried about your future in regards to crimes committed as a minor, you have options to protect your name and preserve your good standing. Juvenile and youthful offenders are afforded some protection under state law, but retaining a fierce Fairfield County, CT criminal defense attorney is vital for contesting the charges against you in court. Attorney Daniel P. Weiner has over 40 years of experience providing effective legal counsel to the people of Connecticut. To schedule a free consultation, call Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner at 203-348-5846.