Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorney in New Orleans
One Mistake Shouldn’t Decide Your Child’s Future
Is your child facing criminal charges in New Orleans? The Barry S. Ranshi Law Firm defends minors
in Louisiana’s juvenile system, works to keep cases out of adult court at transfer hearings, and protects your child’s record and future. Free consultation: 504-360-8484.
Juvenile Charges in Louisiana: What Parents Should Know
In Louisiana, anyone between the ages of 10 and 17 who is charged with breaking the law is typically handled through the juvenile justice system. The process is different from the adult court. The focus is more on rehabilitation than punishment—but that doesn’t mean the outcomes are minor.
Depending on the charge, the case may be handled informally, referred to a diversion program, or prosecuted in juvenile court. In more serious situations, prosecutors can request to transfer the case to adult court. Having a juvenile defense attorney involved early gives your family more control over the path forward.
Juvenile cases are handled as a distinct part of our New Orleans criminal defense practice, since minors face different court procedures and outcomes than adults. Common charges we defend include assault and violent crime allegations, drug possession charges, and, in more serious cases, sex crime allegations.
Types of Juvenile Charges We Defend in New Orleans
Theft or Shoplifting |
Assault or School Fights |
Trespassing or Property Damage |
|---|---|---|
| A split-second decision can lead to big consequences. We help prevent it from following them forever. | Fights happen fast—especially at school. We help the court see the full story, not just charges. | Peer pressure, boredom, or curiosity can turn into charges. We help put mistakes in context. |
Vandalism or Graffiti |
Underage Drinking or Drugs |
Car Break-Ins or Joyriding |
| One bad night shouldn’t shape their future. We push for real solutions—not just punishment. | Experimenting doesn’t make them a criminal. We fight for outcomes that keep doors open. | Even if no harm was meant, these charges can carry weight. We help limit long-term fallout. |
Our Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorney Helps With
Arrests and Police Summons |
Juvenile Court Representation |
|---|---|
| We help families respond to new arrests or summons, explain what’s next, and guide you through custody, hearings, or possible release conditions from the start. | We represent your child in every court appearance, speak with prosecutors and judges, and work to protect their future opportunities and needs. |
Long-Term Impact of Charges |
Diversion and Dismissal Options |
| Juvenile charges can affect school, jobs, and driving privileges. We explain these consequences clearly so your child isn’t caught off guard later. | We pursue diversion or dismissal for eligible cases—especially first offenses—so your child may avoid a formal conviction and keep their record cleaner. |
Juvenile Record Expungement | |
| Our Juvenile defense attorney helps determine if your child’s record can be sealed or expunged after sentencing, and walks you through each step to apply successfully. | |
Talk to a New Orleans Juvenile Defense Attorney
You don’t have to figure this out alone. If your child is facing a criminal charge in New Orleans, we’re here to help. Let’s talk about what happened, what’s ahead, and how we can support your family.
What Happens in a Juvenile Case: Step-by-Step
(1) Initial Consultation with Our Office
We begin by speaking with you and your child. We’ll review the charges, explain what to expect, and discuss what options may be available based on the facts of the case.
(2) Gathering Records and Information
Our office collects all available evidence—police reports, video footage, witness statements, and school records—and begins preparing a response or defense strategy.
(3) Pretrial Conversations with Prosecutors
We contact the district attorney to discuss resolution options. In some cases, we can avoid formal prosecution by requesting a diversion program or community-based alternative.
(4) Appearances in Juvenile Court
Your child will likely appear in juvenile court at least once. We represent them at every stage, explain what’s happening, and work to reach the most favorable outcome.
(5) Sentencing or Alternative Resolution
If the case proceeds to sentencing, we push for outcomes that focus on growth and second chances—not long-term penalties. These may include community service, counseling, or classes.
(6) Record Review and Expungement
After the case ends, we discuss whether your child is eligible to clear their record. Many juvenile cases in Louisiana can be expunged, allowing your child a clean slate as they move forward.
Book a Consultation with Barry S. Ranshi Law Firm
If your child has been charged with a crime, don’t wait. Talk to a juvenile criminal defense attorney who understands the system and puts your child’s future first.
Frequently Asked Questions for Juvenile Defense
What does a juvenile defense attorney do in New Orleans?
A juvenile defense attorney in New Orleans helps minors who have been charged with crimes. This includes reviewing the case, speaking in court on the child’s behalf, and negotiating for reduced or alternative outcomes. They explain every part of the process to parents and help protect the child’s education, record, and future opportunities. Their goal is to reach a resolution that keeps the child on track—not weighed down by one mistake.
Can a child be charged as an adult in Louisiana?
Yes. In Louisiana, a child can be charged as an adult depending on the offense, the child’s age, and their prior history. Serious charges like armed robbery or homicide may be transferred to adult court, especially if the accused is closer to age 17. This process is called a “transfer hearing,” and it gives the judge discretion to move the case out of juvenile court. If this is a concern, it’s critical to speak with a juvenile crime defense lawyer immediately.
Will a juvenile charge stay on my child’s record in Louisiana?
Juvenile records in Louisiana are generally confidential, but that doesn’t mean they disappear. Schools, courts, and some government agencies may still have access, especially if the case involved serious charges. However, in many cases, it’s possible to request expungement once the sentence is complete. A juvenile defense attorney can help you determine if your child qualifies to have their record sealed or erased.
What are the possible penalties in juvenile court?
Louisiana juvenile courts have several sentencing options based on the charge and the child’s history. These may include probation, mandatory counseling, diversion programs, community service, or even time in a juvenile facility. Judges may also order restrictions like curfews or school attendance requirements. In many cases, first-time offenses can be resolved with alternatives that keep a conviction off the child’s record.
How do we start working with a juvenile crime defense lawyer in New Orleans?
To begin, schedule a consultation with a juvenile crime defense lawyer in New Orleans. Be ready to share any court papers, police reports, or school records connected to the charge. The attorney will walk you through what’s happened so far, what to expect next, and how to prepare your child for what’s ahead. Getting legal support early can make a major difference in the outcome of the case.
