Juvenile Defense Attorney in Princeton, NJ Protecting the Rights of Minors in Criminal Cases in Mercer County, Middlesex County, Somerset County, and Throughout Central Jersey
Sometimes, kids make mistakes or find themselves caught up with the wrong crowd. As a parent, learning that your child is facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, making you worry about their future. But this one mistake shouldn’t define your child’s entire life.
At Mark H. Jaffe Attorney at Law, we support families across New Jersey in navigating the juvenile justice system with care and compassion. Our priority is to protect your child’s record and work toward a second chance that lets them move forward positively.
Contact us today for an initial consultation to learn how our New Jersey juvenile crime lawyer can help secure a better future for your child.
Understanding the New Jersey Juvenile Justice System
In New Jersey, when someone under 18 is accused of a crime, their case goes to the juvenile division of family court. This system is distinct from the adult criminal system, focusing on:
- Rehabilitation over punishment
- Helping young people learn from their mistakes and develop a path toward becoming productive members of society
Here’s how the New Jersey juvenile justice process works:
Arrest or Intake
If your child is suspected of committing a crime, law enforcement may take them into custody.
After the arrest, a prosecutor reviews the case to decide if your child should remain in custody. Your child will be released if they decide that detention is not required. If not, detention continues, and formal charges are filed.
Probable Cause Hearing
Within two days of the arrest, a probable cause hearing takes place. The prosecutor presents evidence, and the judge determines whether there are enough reasons to keep your child in custody.
This hearing is critical. A New Jersey juvenile crime lawyer can argue for your child’s release, building a solid case for their defense.
Adjudicatory Hearing
An adjudicatory hearing is similar to a trial, where the judge hears both sides of the case and decides if your child is delinquent (guilty). If they’re found innocent, they’re released, and the case is closed. If found delinquent, the next step is the disposition hearing.
Disposition Hearing
If the court finds your child delinquent, a disposition hearing follows, where the judge decides on a rehabilitation program. This could include:
- Probation
- Community service
- Participation in a residential program or counseling.
In rare cases, incarceration in a Juvenile Justice Commission facility may be ordered, with an average sentence of two years.
Navigating the juvenile justice system is complex, and this system operates differently from the adult criminal system. Contact us to discuss your case with our juvenile defense attorney in Princeton, NJ, and explore your options.
How Our New Jersey Juvenile Crime Lawyer Can Defend Your Child Against Criminal Charges
Our New Jersey juvenile crime lawyer can protect your child’s rights and future by presenting a solid defense during crucial stages like probable cause and adjudicatory hearings. Here’s how we can make a difference:
- Get charges dismissed or reduced charges: Mark H. Jaffe can fight to have charges dismissed or reduced, safeguarding your child’s future.
- Promote your child’s best interests: Juvenile judges prioritize rehabilitation. Mark H. Jaffe understands how to emphasize these values in court, advocating for outcomes that support your child.
When your child’s future is on the line, you need a lawyer who can present a defense that resonates with the court and emphasizes their potential to grow and learn. Contact our juvenile defense attorney in Princeton, NJ, to discuss a strong defense strategy for your child.
Why Hire Mark H. Jaffe Attorney at Law for Your Juvenile Case
Our founder, Mark H. Jaffe, has extensive experience and a dedication to defending children across New Jersey. His background includes:
- Serving as a special prosecutor in Newark
- Working closely with the NJ State Police
- Representing the Chiefs of Police Association in Hudson County
Mark H. Jaffe’s unique insight into how prosecutors build cases allows him to anticipate their strategies and develop strong defenses.
Here’s why families choose us:
"I am writing this letter to thank our attorney, Mark H. Jaffe, for representing our son's case so well. Mark is an intelligent, honest, and excellent attorney!! He was totally devoted and passionate about providing a powerful, compassionate, and successful legal defense to our son's case. He is very knowledgeable in guiding us through this difficult time. He kept us informed throughout the process. He prepared our son very well for his court appearance. We were so proud of how our son handled himself before the judge, and this was all due to Mark's expert preparation of him. He is very well connected and knew the right expert to hire to bolster our son's case and was able to get him a very favorable outcome! Mark is very reliable and dependable. Mark was available to talk to, even at late hours. When most would probably have you talking to a recording asking you to call back during business hours, Mark was there to answer questions and calm our anxieties. Much like the accident our son was involved in, where the outcome could have been much worse, without Mark's expert guidance, the court outcome could have been much worse. We are so grateful and thankful that we chose Mark to represent our son. It was a very trying ordeal for our whole family that Mark made getting through so much easier and less stressful. We consider him a member of the family now. We would highly recommend Mark H. Jaffe of Princeton, NJ, to anyone seeking legal counsel! Thanks again, Mark, for all that you did!" - John
Call us to discuss your juvenile crime case. Our juvenile defense attorney in Princeton, NJ, can help secure the best possible outcome for your child.
Contact a New Jersey juvenile crime lawyer at Mark H. Jaffe Attorney at Law Today for an Initial Consultation.
We understand how overwhelming juvenile charges can feel. We can work to protect your child’s future at every stage—whether that means preventing a conviction or seeking reduced charges.
For help from a juvenile crime lawyer in New Jersey, contact Mark H. Jaffe Attorney at Law online, or call 866-930-1914 today.
