Claremore Juvenile Defense Attorney
When your teenager faces criminal charges, fear and confusion can quickly overwhelm your family. Attorney Mark Schantz understands the Oklahoma juvenile justice system and will step in immediately to protect your child’s rights, explain the court process clearly and fight for their future across Rogers, Craig, Mayes and Tulsa counties.
Types Of Juvenile Offenses Schantz Legal Office Handles
Oklahoma classifies youth offenses as either misdemeanors or felonies depending on the severity of the act. Attorney Schantz defends teenagers against a broad range of charges:
- Shoplifting and vandalism: Property crimes involving theft or damage to public and private property.
- Drug possession and underage drinking: Unlawful possession of controlled substances, alcohol or drug paraphernalia.
- Juvenile DUI: Operating a motor vehicle with any measurable amount of alcohol or drugs in the system.
- Truancy: Repeated, unexcused absences from school that trigger court intervention.
- Assault and robbery: Violent allegations ranging from minor school fights to forceful theft.
- Firearm possession and shootings: Serious weapons charges involving unlawful handguns or discharging firearms.
Facing any of these allegations threatens your teenager’s education and freedom. Early intervention by a skilled juvenile defense lawyer helps prevent minor mistakes from turning into life-altering convictions.
Rights Of Juveniles In Oklahoma
Young people hold constitutional rights during arrests and police interrogations. Minors have the right to remain silent, and law enforcement must allow parents or a legal representative to be present during custodial questioning. Parents maintain the right to attend all court hearings, review state evidence and hire a private juvenile defense attorney to advocate for their child.
Potential Consequences And Long-Term Impact
Juvenile sentences vary from formal probation and mandatory counseling to placement in state detention facilities. Under Oklahoma law, minors aged 15-17 are automatically processed as youthful offenders or adults for specific severe crimes, while 13 and 14 year-olds can only be treated as youthful offenders or adults if charged with first-degree murder.
Convictions disrupt college admissions, military enlistment, job prospects and professional licensing, though an experienced juvenile defense attorney can often pursue record expungement down the road.
Diversion Programs And Alternative Sentencing
Local courts offer alternative pathways like Teen Court, community service, substance counseling, and juvenile drug court. Eligible first-time offenders who complete these structured programs can earn a full dismissal of their charges. These alternatives keep your child out of detention and preserve a clean record.
Contact Schantz Legal Office Today To Protect Your Child’s Future
Do not let one mistake derail your child’s life. Contact Schantz Legal Office today at 918-882-0633 or send an email to speak directly with an experienced criminal defense attorney and build a strong defense.