• Hankins Law Building
  • 306 Main St.
  • Newport News, Virginia 23601
FREE CONSULTATION 757-525-9883
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Newport News Juvenile Defense Attorney

Dedicated legal support for youthful offenders

The Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice exists to treat young offenders differently from adults, to emphasize rehabilitation over punishment. But, juvenile justice does not always live up to its promise. When the volume of petitions runs high, the court is under pressure to process cases quickly without considering the total picture of a youth's life. If your child faces an adjudicatory hearing, an experienced criminal defense attorney who is also familiar with juvenile court rules and procedures can make a big difference. For more than 30 years, the Law Offices of Timothy H. Hankins has helped youthful offenders get the full benefit of Virginia juvenile law, including:

  • Referrals to divert the case from justice to social services
  • Sanctions such as warnings, restitution or fines that avoid detention
  • Suspension or delay in issuance of driver's license in lieu of detention
  • Orders to participate in counseling or treatment programs
  • Community service in lieu of detention
  • Teen court adjudication
  • Appeals after dispositional hearings

Juvenile felonies in Hampton, Williamsburg, Newport News, Norfolk, Windson and neighboring cities

A juvenile who is 14 years of age or older and is accused of a felony can be tried as an adult and receive the full extent of adult punishment. Before that can happen, the juvenile court holds a transfer hearing, and the judge determines whether to retain jurisdiction or transfer the case to the appropriate circuit court. The judge applies several criteria to reach a decision, including:

  • Whether the youth can stay in the juvenile system long enough for effective rehabilitation
  • The appropriateness and availability of the services for dealing with the juvenile's problems
  • The juvenile's mental and emotional maturity

To argue effectively against a transfer, an attorney must care enough to get to know your son or daughter. Timothy H. Hankins asks the important questions and goes after the information necessary to present his juvenile defendants in the best possible light. A juvenile facing transfer to adult court benefits by having a determined juvenile defense attorney like Timothy H. Hankins who is also an experienced attorney for criminal defense.

Contact a juvenile defense lawyer in Hampton, Williamsburg, Norfolk & neighboring cities

Don't let a juvenile crime ruin your son's or daughter's future. If your child faces a juvenile court appearance in Virginia, Timothy H. Hankins can help. Call us today at 757-525-9883 or contact our office online to schedule a free consultation.

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