As you will quickly learn, juvenile crimes in Olympia, Washington, reflect young people's struggles and challenges as they walk through life from adolescence to adulthood. These offenses can range from minor infractions like curfew violations to more serious crimes like theft, assault, and drug-related offenses. In Washington, juvenile crimes are treated differently from adult crimes.
It recognizes that younger individuals (under the age of 18) may be more susceptible to influence and rehabilitation. So, juveniles arrested for criminal activity in Washington may face the consequences through the Juvenile Justice system, where there is much more emphasis placed on rehabilitation and education instead of just punishment, giving them the chance to do better.
In Olympia, misdemeanors and felonies apply to juvenile offenders, and each crime has a varying degree of severity. The more common juvenile crimes we often come across include vandalism, underage drinking, drug possession, truancy, and more serious offenses like robbery or assault. The severity of these crimes has a lot of weight when it comes to the type of punishment they will likely receive. This can include community service, probation, or placement in a juvenile detention center.
If the juvenile is charged with any of these criminal offenses in Olympia, they may also be given access to diversion programs. These are designed to prevent them from descending even further into criminal behavior. Some of the programs include counseling or restorative justice practices that help address the root cause of their actions. The goal is to balance holding them accountable for what they have done while still offering them the opportunity to work toward more positive growth for their future.
To better understand these laws, you want a criminal defense attorney on your side who can explain the process and advocate for rehabilitation-focused outcomes.
Washington State Laws Regarding Juvenile Crimes in OlympiaThere are many different state laws and statutes that apply to juvenile crime cases in Olympia, Washington. Here are some of the primary ones you will undoubtedly encounter if someone you know is facing these criminal charges.
RCW 13.04The Juvenile Justice Act is like the foundation for how juvenile crimes are handled in the state. This addresses the establishment of the Juvenile Court system, outlines the procedures involved when it comes to how misdemeanors and felonies committed by minors in Washington are handled, and governs how sentencing for minors is handled in these cases. Again, they emphasize rehabilitation over punishment and focus on alternatives to detention, like diversion programs.
RCW 13.04.011This statute defines what a juvenile offender is, who is anyone under the age of 18 who commits an offense. This statute also goes on to outline how the justice system approaches these offenses.
RCW 13.04.030Here, you will find information on how the juvenile court jurisdiction works in Washington. It outlines the case types the court handles, including status offenses (truancy and curfew violations) and delinquent acts (theft or assault). It also talks about how juvenile offenders can be moved over to adult court in certain situations, like when they commit a much more severe crime.
RCW 13.40.0357This statute covers juvenile offender sentencing standards in Washington state. Some of the key elements include offense categories, standard sentencing grids, discretionary factors, enhanced penalties, and detention alternatives. This is where you will find how the state balances accountability with rehabilitation while keeping in mind these young offenders' developmental needs.
RCW 13.40.038This discusses county juvenile detention facilities and establishes guidelines for the operation and policies of county juvenile detention facilities in Washington. These facilities have to implement detention and risk assessment standards designed to ensure fair, consistent, and appropriate use of detention for these juvenile offenders.
Balancing Community Growth and Youth Rehabilitation in OlympiaOlympia is right in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. It is the state capital and go-to for government activity and cultural engagement. Some of the landmarks you can find here include the Washington State Capitol Building and scenic Percival Landing, which give you a nice glimpse into the historical and ecological significance of this area.
Despite all this, Olympia still faces challenges, including those related to youth and crime. The growing population and changing demographics bring with them the need to address issues like juvenile offenses, which often arise due to social pressures, economic disparities, and personal struggles.
Understanding how the system works within Olympia’s community can help create more effective solutions that prioritize rehabilitation and the future of all of these young offenders.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney on Your SideWhen a juvenile is accused of a crime in Olympia, a skilled criminal defense attorney will be beneficial when it is time to navigate Washington’s juvenile justice system. A criminal defense attorney who understands juvenile law can guide families through the process and make sure the child’s rights are protected at every turn. They can advocate for alternative resolutions and also challenge evidence, negotiate plea deals, and do what they can to help minimize the long-term consequences the juvenile may face.
A criminal defense attorney is also good to have in your corner when handling more serious cases where the prosecution might attempt to try the juvenile as an adult, where the stakes are much higher. The attorney can present a compelling argument to keep the case in juvenile court and can come up with a defense strategy tailored to the unique circumstances involved.
We believe that every juvenile offense can be successfully challenged with the right legal approach. For over 20 years, our attorneys have been trying these kinds of juvenile cases across Western Washington and continue to provide young clients and their families with skilled and compassionate representation.
If your child or a loved one is facing charges in the juvenile justice system, consult an experienced juvenile defense attorney in Olympia as soon as you can. Our Olympia juvenile defense attorneys are dedicated and tenacious advocates who will work tirelessly to help your child avoid detention and pursue alternative solutions that prioritize their rehabilitation and growth.
One of the most difficult jobs an adult can have is that of a parent. When a child is accused of doing something wrong, it can weigh heavily on the parents. There will always be a fine line between teaching your child a lesson and protecting their future. Most parents are not especially familiar with the police, the law, and the court system. When the government becomes involved in your child’s life, it is important to reach out to an attorney for further guidance. We all want what is best for your child.
When a child is accused with a crime, the government can choose to handle it in several different ways.
The prosecutor may choose to charge your child as an adult in the normal court system. This means a municipal court, a district court, or the normal superior court will handle the case – depending on the type of crime.
Another possible option that the prosecutor may choose is to file the case in juvenile court. This is a distinctly different court system. Generally speaking, a juvenile court is more geared towards treatment and rehabilitation as opposed to sanctioning and punishing. The Thurston County Juvenile court is in a different complex and location than that of the “adult” court system.
Some jurisdictions also have a community based diversion program. This can take on a variety of different forms but generally speaking, there are several different representatives from the community who meet with the child and the parents. There is then a series of questions and a discussion about the child and the child’s future. If the panel is satisfied there is a plan is in place which protects the child and the community, the issue can be concluded then. However, if not, the case can be referred back to prosecutor to handle.
If your child is being accused of a crime, it is important to speak with an attorney. The world and court system has changed dramatically since when we were children. What was once good advice then may not be a good idea to follow now. Please give our office a call so we can help you and your family work through this difficult and stressful situation.