Juvenile Law Lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks

Juvenile law can be a sensitive subject for some people because it involves the crimes of children. No one likes thinking about a child going to jail or committing a crime, but the harsh reality is that it does happen. If you know of a child who is in need of a juvenile law lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, call Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, and Welch at 573-346-7231. Keep reading to learn examples of crimes juveniles commit and about representation for juveniles at the Lake of the Ozarks.




According to the Missouri Juvenile Office Handbook


"Once the juvenile officer has classified the type of case which has been referred, the juvenile’s age must be determined to make sure that the juvenile court is still able to exercise jurisdiction. For purposes of abuse/neglect, the juvenile court may exercise jurisdiction until the child reaches his 18th birthday.  Section 211.031.1(1), RSMo. For purposes of status offenses, the juvenile court may exercise jurisdiction until the juvenile reaches his 17th birthday.  Section 211.031.1(2), RSMo."


What does this mean?


Basically, if a child commits what is referred to as a "status offense," which could be any one of the following:


  • A city or country curfew violation
  • Running away
  • Truancy
  • An offense that is beyond the control of parents
  • Underage drinking of alcohol
  • Possession of alcohol (Minor in Possession)
  • Underage use of tobacco
  • Underage possession of tobacco
...he or she may only be tried by the court as a juvenile until his or her 17th birthday.

If a juvenile has committed abuse or neglect toward anyone, then he or she may only be tried in court as a juvenile until his or her 18th birthday.



How can a juvenile be punished for a status offense?


The punishment for a status crime committed by a juvenile can vary from state to state, but typically they could receive one of the following punishments:
  • Placed in the custody of someone else, possibly another relative or foster home
  • Suspension of their driver's license
  • Paying a fine
  • Counseling or an educational program

Juvenile Law Lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks


As a general practice law firm in the Lake of the Ozarks area, we help clients through a wide range of legal issues.  If your child or a child you know of has been accused of a crime, having an effective juvenile lawyer early on, even during the investigation, can have an enormous impact on your case. Call Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, and Welch for your free consultation today at (573) 346-7231. We have evening and weekend appointments available. Our firm is conveniently located by the Camden County courthouse, and we have an open door policy for clients to just stop by and discuss their legal needs.




Law Offices of Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, & Welch, P.C.
The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising. When you need a knowledgeable attorney, we invite you to contact us to set up a consultation. Evening and weekend appointments are available. We have access to interpreters.

We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.

85 Court Circle N.W., P.O. Box 559
Camdenton, MO 65020   GET A MAP
(573) 346-7231 - Telephone
(888) 236-2485 - Toll-Free
(573) 346-4411 - Fax

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