Experienced Defense For Juveniles In Northwest Georgia

If your child under the age of 17 has been arrested or charged with a crime in Northwest Georgia, it is important to seek experienced legal representation immediately. The legal consequences for juvenile delinquency are more significant now than in the past and the laws can be confusing without the help of a defense attorney.

As an experienced criminal defense attorney with 20 years of experience in Rome and Northwest Georgia, I understand the complexities of Georgia’s evolving juvenile justice system. I am Robert Christian Rutledge, and I am dedicated to protecting the rights and futures of young people.

I provide comprehensive legal services for juveniles facing a range of charges, including:

• Alcohol-related offenses: Minor in Possession (MIP) charges apply to someone under the age of 21 possessing or consuming alcohol, in addition to driving under the influence (DUI) which has separate standards for minors. Georgia law establishes that a person under 21 is guilty of DUI per se if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.02 grams or more.
• Drug offenses: Possession of marijuana or other controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, and intent to distribute. For children age 13 or older, charges for offenses such as trafficking of controlled substances, along with murder, voluntary manslaughter, rape, and others, fall under the exclusive original jurisdiction of the Superior Court, not the Juvenile Court.
• Assault and battery: Simple assault, aggravated assault, and affray (fighting). Note that while simple assault is a common delinquent act, other charges such as aggravated assault and aggravated battery are often categorized as Designated Felony Acts in Georgia Juvenile Court, which can lead to significantly harsher penalties, including restrictive custody.
• Theft and property crimes: Shoplifting, burglary, vandalism, and motor vehicle theft.
• Disorderly conduct: Public intoxication, disturbing the peace, and curfew violations.
• Traffic violations: Speeding, reckless driving, and driving without a license.
• Weapons offenses: Possession of a handgun by a minor and carrying weapons on school property.
• Truancy: Failure to attend school as required by law.
• Cybercrimes: Cyberbullying, online harassment, and unauthorized access to computer systems.

I understand the stress and uncertainty that come when families are contending with allegations of juvenile delinquency and criminal charges. I will help you protect your child’s rights and future opportunities.

A Few Words About Status Offenses

Georgia law uses the term “status offense” to describe offenses that are only illegal because of the person’s age, such as running away from home or being “ungovernable.” Status offenses are the actions that qualify a child for a Child in Need of Services (CHINS) petition. In these cases, children may be habitually disobedient, habitually truant, runaway from home, commit an offense applicable only to a child, like minor in possession of alcohol or violating curfew. The court may find that these behaviors do not warrant a formal delinquency adjudication, which can include status-only offenses, misdemeanor criminal acts, or even a delinquent act if the court finds the child is in need of supervision but not treatment or rehabilitation.

Additionally, while the act of Minor in Possession (MIP) is included in the CHINS definition, it is often prosecuted as a delinquent act in Georgia, not solely as a CHINS case. Acts that would be considered crimes under the adult criminal code are formally referred to in the Georgia Juvenile Code as “delinquent acts.” Delinquent acts have a higher standard of proof, which is “beyond a reasonable doubt,” which, when proven, can lead to more formal juvenile court outcomes. In contrast, a CHINS finding requires a less strict standard of proof of clear and convincing evidence.

Why Choose Me?

Drawing from two decades of experience, I will help you focus on your child’s legal options and choices. They have many. In Georgia, several alternative sentencing programs are available to juveniles facing criminal charges, offering rehabilitation and support instead of traditional punishment.

These programs vary by jurisdiction but often include:

• Diversion programs: These programs allow juveniles to avoid formal court proceedings by completing specific requirements, such as community service, counseling, or educational courses. Successful completion of the program results in the charges being dismissed.
• Probation: Juveniles placed on probation are supervised by a probation officer and must adhere to specific conditions, such as attending school, maintaining a curfew, and abstaining from drug and alcohol use.
• Restitution: Juveniles may be required to pay restitution to victims to compensate for damages or losses caused by their offenses.
• Community service: Juveniles may be ordered to perform community service, working at local organizations or government agencies to give back to the community.
• Counseling and therapy: Juveniles may be required to attend individual or group counseling sessions to address underlying issues contributing to their behavior.
• Educational programs: Juveniles may be required to participate in educational programs, such as GED preparation courses or vocational training, to improve their academic skills and job prospects.
• Drug and alcohol treatment: Juveniles with substance abuse issues may be required to attend drug and alcohol treatment programs, including detoxification, counseling, and support groups.
• Teen Court: In Teen Court programs, juvenile offenders may be judged by a jury of their peers, who determine responsibility and recommend appropriate sanctions to the presiding judicial officer.

I will provide compassionate guidance and support throughout the legal process.

Contact Me Today

If your child is facing juvenile delinquency issues or criminal charges in Northwest Georgia, do not give up on them and do not wait to seek legal help. Contact me today for a confidential consultation. Call my law firm, Robert Christian Rutledge, PC, at 706-510-0133 or send me an email to discuss your case and explore your options.