PMCW Law

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 jurisdi...

Unfortunately, adults are not the only perpetrators of crime in our area; juveniles have been known to commit various crimes on multiple occasions. Depending on the severity of their crimes, the consequences of their convictions can impact these young people's lives for years to come. Because of the potential for lifetime consequences, juvenile law at the Lake of the Ozarks can be more than a little scary and overwhelming.  This week, the team at the Law Offices of Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, & Welch, P.C. are here to answer some of the questions you may have about this important legal discipline. 1. Can A Juvenile Ever Be Charged As An Adult? In some situations, yes. For example, a juvenile who is at least 12 years old may be charged as an adult if he/she has been charged of a felony. 2. At What Age Is Someone Considered An Adult Under Missouri Law? Under certain sections of Missouri statutes related to c har ging criminal offense , any person age 17 or older...