New Hampshire Juvenile Defense

… and how our Portsmouth criminal defense attorneys can help.

Attorneys Reis and O'Keefe represent juvenile clients accused of crimes and delinquent acts. We are not just lawyers, we are parents. We are passionate about protecting the rights and futures of children / teenagers who are caught up in the system. We encourage you to read our Message to Parents whose children have been arrested, charged with a crime, or subjected to a delinquency petition.

Juvenile Delinquency Petitions

Juvenile prosecution of children under 18 years of age is not "criminal" in nature, but it feels that way to those involved. Cases are handled in the Family Division and involve the child's school and parents. Juvenile cases are subject to stringent timelines that cause them to move much more quickly than cases in the adult system.

A finding of "delinquency" — being found "true" and in need of services — may result in consequences ranging from community service to conditional release (probation) or even commitment to the Sununu Youth Services Center (SYSC). Juvenile hearings and pleadings are not open to the public, but the consequences to your child may be permanent. A delinquency finding may be used by criminal prosecutors to seek a harsher sentence in adult court.

Contact Our Portsmouth Criminal Defense Attorneys for a Free Consultation

Attorneys Reis and O'Keefe have decades of experience, including Attorney O'Keefe's representation of youths in one of the first Juvenile Drug Courts in Concord, New Hampshire. Based in Portsmouth, we work throughout the seacoast area and are available to travel elsewhere in the State. We are happy to help if your child is in a difficult position and encourage you to contact us now for a free consultation.