Buffalo Criminal Defense Attorney Fighting To Preserve The Future Of Youthful Offenders
When your child faces criminal charges, they require competent and diligent representation prepared to advise them of their rights and represent them in court. Criminal charges can have devastating consequences on adolescents and their families, emphasizing the importance of keeping juvenile cases within the juvenile justice system.
Minors may not fully comprehend the consequences of their actions and how they may impact their future, highlighting the need for experienced legal counsel.
While many juvenile offenders are encouraged to consider plea deals, Louis Mussari, a seasoned Criminal Defense Lawyer in Buffalo, is prepared to fight for your child in court or negotiate a plea when necessary.
With extensive jury trial experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney, Louis possesses unique qualifications that make him a knowledgeable and confident litigator. Having served in the Erie County District Attorney’s office for 10 years, Louis has handled numerous cases involving adolescent offenders. Offenses he has handled include:
- Drug use and selling drugs
- Theft and burglary
- Assault and violent crimes
- Carjacking or robbery
- Rape and sexual offenses
- Underage DUI
- Weapon offenses
In the State of New York, youths accused of crimes fall into three categories: Juvenile Delinquent, Juvenile Offender, and Youthful Offender. A juvenile delinquent, aged 7 to 16, faces accusations of felony or misdemeanor, with cases handled in Family Court.
A juvenile offender, aged 13 to 18, commits serious or violent felonies, with cases initially heard in adult criminal court, though some may be transferred to Family Court.
If the case remains in criminal court, without youthful offender status granted, the individual may face adult penalties and acquire a criminal record.
A youthful offender, aged 16 to 18, who commits a criminal offense, may receive reduced sentencing or avoid a criminal record. Eligibility for youthful offender status is possible for individuals aged 13 to 17 facing trial in adult criminal court as juvenile offenders.
Another category is the adolescent offender, aged 16 or 17, charged with a felony. These cases are heard in the Youth Part of the Supreme or County Court, with potential transfer to Family Court. If retained in the Youth Part, the individual is treated as an adult during sentencing considerations.
Adolescents facing criminal charges demand dedicated and skilled advocacy. Louis Mussari, a trusted Criminal Attorney in Buffalo NY, is committed to championing your child’s rights and interests in court, regardless of the charge.
Juvenile Offenses – Legal Overview
The tabs below contain some additional legal information on juvenile offenses in the State of New York.
- Statutes
- Possible Penalties
- Defense Strategies
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand that facing juvenile crime charges can be an overwhelming experience for both the young individual and their family. Our extensive knowledge of juvenile crime statutes allows us to navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that your child’s rights are protected and aiming for the most favorable outcome. We are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation, tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.
Note: Statutes and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we recognize the emotional toll that juvenile crime charges can take on a family, and we’re here to help you through this challenging time. With years of experience in handling juvenile crime cases, we have the expertise to guide you through the legal maze, advocating for your child’s rights and working diligently to secure the best possible outcome. Our client-focused approach ensures that you receive personalized, compassionate legal counsel every step of the way.
- Monetary fines for parents
- Court costs for parents
- Counseling for minors
- Apology letters written by the minor
- Citations on the juvenile record
- Diversionary programs involving electronic monitoring
Note: Penalties and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand the gravity of juvenile crime charges and the impact they can have on your child’s future. Our specialized defense strategies in juvenile crime cases are designed to protect your child’s rights while aiming for reduced charges or even case dismissal. We are committed to working closely with you to develop a defense plan that is tailored to the unique circumstances of your child’s case, ensuring the most favorable outcome possible.
Lack of Evidence
The defense can challenge the evidence presented, including the credibility of witnesses and the legality of searches that produced evidence.
Mistaken Identity
Presenting alibis, eyewitness testimony, or other evidence to prove that the minor was not the perpetrator.
Self-Defense
Demonstrating that the minor acted in self-defense and had a reasonable belief that they were in imminent danger.
Entrapment
Proving that the minor was coerced or induced into committing the crime.
Consent
Providing evidence that the act was consensual, although this is a complex area given age-of-consent laws.
Mental Incapacity or Insanity
Providing psychological evaluations and expert testimony to prove the minor’s mental state.
Challenging the Legality of the Arrest
If the arrest or search was illegal, any evidence obtained could be inadmissible in court.
Plea Bargaining
Negotiating with the prosecution for reduced charges or lighter sentencing in exchange for a guilty plea.
Note: Defense strategies and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand that facing juvenile crime charges can be an overwhelming experience for both the young individual and their family. Our extensive knowledge of juvenile crime statutes allows us to navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that your child’s rights are protected and aiming for the most favorable outcome. We are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation, tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.
Note: Statutes and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we recognize the emotional toll that juvenile crime charges can take on a family, and we’re here to help you through this challenging time. With years of experience in handling juvenile crime cases, we have the expertise to guide you through the legal maze, advocating for your child’s rights and working diligently to secure the best possible outcome. Our client-focused approach ensures that you receive personalized, compassionate legal counsel every step of the way.
- Monetary fines for parents
- Court costs for parents
- Counseling for minors
- Apology letters written by the minor
- Citations on the juvenile record
- Diversionary programs involving electronic monitoring
Note: Penalties and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand the gravity of juvenile crime charges and the impact they can have on your child’s future. Our specialized defense strategies in juvenile crime cases are designed to protect your child’s rights while aiming for reduced charges or even case dismissal. We are committed to working closely with you to develop a defense plan that is tailored to the unique circumstances of your child’s case, ensuring the most favorable outcome possible.
Lack of Evidence
The defense can challenge the evidence presented, including the credibility of witnesses and the legality of searches that produced evidence.
Mistaken Identity
Presenting alibis, eyewitness testimony, or other evidence to prove that the minor was not the perpetrator.
Self-Defense
Demonstrating that the minor acted in self-defense and had a reasonable belief that they were in imminent danger.
Entrapment
Proving that the minor was coerced or induced into committing the crime.
Consent
Providing evidence that the act was consensual, although this is a complex area given age-of-consent laws.
Mental Incapacity or Insanity
Providing psychological evaluations and expert testimony to prove the minor’s mental state.
Challenging the Legality of the Arrest
If the arrest or search was illegal, any evidence obtained could be inadmissible in court.
Plea Bargaining
Negotiating with the prosecution for reduced charges or lighter sentencing in exchange for a guilty plea.
Note: Defense strategies and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
Testimonials
Ask Yourself: Can You Afford Not To Call?
The decisions you make in the next days and weeks are critical. Will you get to keep living your life or will spend time in jail, pay thousands of dollars in fines, and suffer consequences for employment, education and where you live? Make the wise choice and call Louis C. Mussari, Attorney at Law, at 716-430-2147.