Lake Mary Juvenile Vandalism Lawyer

Juvenile vandalism in FloridaIt’s not uncommon for young people to make mistakes, and doing so can be a part of growing up. But not all mistakes are viewed equally in the eyes of the law. When an individual 18 or younger participates in activities that deface public property, they can be charged with vandalism.

Vandalism is a common juvenile charge, but one that’s subject to serious consequences. If your loved one has been charged with vandalism and you’re not sure what to do, the first step is to contact a juvenile defense attorney you can trust.

In and around Lake Mary, The Umansky Law Firm is a trusted source of legal representation for juveniles and adults alike. We believe everyone deserves a second chance and want to help your child avoid a conviction.

What are Examples of Juvenile Vandalism?

In Florida, three criteria are needed to convict a person of vandalism, including:

  • The presence of physical damage
  • The property was owned by another person
  • The damage was intentionally inflicted on the property

Common examples of vandalism include:

  • Graffiti
  • Breaking windows
  • Salting lawns
  • Cutting trees
  • Slashing tires
  • Keying cars
  • Flooding a property
  • Obstructing locks
  • … and more

The prosecution must be able to gather evidence from the crime to convict the juvenile.

What are Common Juvenile Penalties for Vandalism?

Although penalties for vandalism are not as severe as the penalties for other charges, vandalism carries a negative connotation with employers and educational institutions. Penalties for vandalism are typically determined by the amount of property damage involved.

  • Property damage less than $200 is a second-degree misdemeanor
  • Property damage between $200-$1,000 is a first-degree misdemeanor
  • Property damage greater than $1,000 is a third-degree felony

If your child has been charged with vandalism, it’s essential to understand the extent of the charges they face. The property damage they’re charged with will make a big difference in the impact the charges have on their future and can impact the strategy for their defense.

What are Defense Strategies for Juvenile Vandalism?

Often, the prosecution will attempt to use security footage to convict a juvenile of vandalism. Without evidence, it can be very difficult for the prosecution to be successful. At The Umansky Law Firm, we take the time to get to know you and your teen to build the best defense strategy possible. Common defense strategies we use include:

  • Lack of evidence
  • Poor mental state
  • Own property
  • Mistaken identity
  • …and more

If a juvenile has been charged with vandalism more than once, it’s more important than ever to build a defense strategy that stands up in court. The more charges they face, the more serious the penalties become. At The Umansky Law Firm, we work hard to build a defense strategy based on the details of your case and walk you through the criminal process.

Find a Lake Mary Juvenile Vandalism Attorney Near You

Around Lake Mary, Florida it’s not uncommon for juveniles to be charged with vandalism. If your child is facing criminal charges, the best course of action is to contact a trusted attorney who is experienced in juvenile criminal defense.

At The Umansky Law Firm, we have more than 100 years of combined experience defending people in criminal cases. Our team of attorneys is composed of former prosecutors and they provide a unique understanding of the court process. By contacting an attorney as soon as possible after the arrest, you’re going to increase your chances of mitigating the charges your child faces without ever going to court. We believe that your life shouldn’t be defined by a single mistake and will fight tirelessly for your defense when the odds are stacked against you. Our law firm is highly rated on Avvo.com and we are members of the Florida Super Lawyers.

To schedule your free consultation, call The Umansky Law Firm or fill out our online contact form today. We’re attorneys who will fight for you.

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    Lake Mary Juvenile Vandalism Lawyer
    6455
    18.118.7.85