JUVENILE DEFENSE
JUVENILE DEFENSE ATTORNEY
When a child is arrested, parents are often overwhelmed and unsure what to do next. Questions about detention, court appearances, school consequences, and a child’s future can create tremendous stress for the entire family.
A juvenile arrest does not have to define a young person’s future. The juvenile justice system is designed differently than the adult criminal justice system, and in many cases there may be opportunities to protect a child’s record and pursue alternatives that focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Attorney Ron Baum has represented juveniles and their families throughout Broward County and South Florida for more than 28 years. He works closely with families to understand the circumstances surrounding the case and to pursue the best possible outcome for the child involved.
Common Juvenile Offenses
Ron Baum represents juveniles facing a wide variety of charges, including:
- Theft and Shoplifting
- Burglary
- Assault and Battery
- Drug Possession
- Vandalism and Criminal Mischief
- Trespassing
- Underage Drinking
- Disorderly Conduct
- School-Related Offenses
- Weapons Offenses
- Juvenile DUI Charges
Criminal Defense Practice Areas
What happens after a juvenile arrest in Florida?
After a juvenile arrest, law enforcement may release the child to a parent or guardian, refer the case to the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), or place the child in detention under certain circumstances. The next steps depend on the nature of the offense and the child’s prior record.
Will my child have a permanent criminal record?
Not necessarily. Many juvenile cases are handled differently than adult criminal cases, and certain juvenile records may be eligible for sealing or expungement. The outcome depends on the specific circumstances of the case.
Can juvenile records be expunged in Florida?
Juvenile records are generally confidential and are not accessible to the general public. In some cases, juvenile records may also qualify for sealing or expungement under Florida law. Eligibility depends on the specific facts of the case and other legal requirements, so it is important to have an attorney review the record to determine what options may be available.
Do parents have to attend juvenile court hearings?
In most cases, parents or legal guardians are expected to participate in the juvenile court process. Their involvement is often an important part of addressing the issues surrounding the case and supporting the child’s future
What should I do if my child is arrested?
Remain calm, cooperate with law enforcement, and obtain as much information as possible about where your child is being held and the nature of the allegations. Seeking legal guidance early can help you better understand the process and available options.
Related Juvenile Defense Resources
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn from mistakes and move forward. Juvenile cases should be evaluated based on the individual circumstances involved, not solely on the allegations contained in an arrest report.
Ron Baum takes the time to understand the full picture, including a child’s background, family situation, educational history, and other factors that may be relevant to the case. This approach often helps provide context and allows courts to consider alternatives that support a young person’s future.
The goal is not simply to resolve the immediate legal issue, but to minimize the long-term impact that a juvenile arrest may have on a child’s education, employment opportunities, and future.
FREE CONSULTATION
Being arrested or charged with a crime can be overwhelming. Understanding your options early can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.