Juvenile Burglary

Juvenile Burglary Lawyers in Mount Holly, NJ

Burlington County, while fairly rural, has seen its fair share of juvenile crimes. Included in these juvenile offenses is burglary and theft. Whether the underlying incident started off as a trespassing prank or if the juvenile was battling a drug addiction, the penalties for burglary are severe. Moreover, when these offense result in physical assault or injury, the juvenile may also be charged with the more serious offense known as robbery. If you child was caught up in a burglary, either as a follower or leader, contact an experienced Burlington County Juvenile Attorney today. Depending on the circumstances and facts of your case, your child could be facing multiple years at the Burlington County Juvenile Detention Center in Pemberton.

Juvenile cases require careful attention because the repercussions of juvenile delinquency are far-reaching. If you or your child have pending juvenile charges at the Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly, please contact the Burlington County Juvenile Lawyers at Proetta, Oliver & Fay. We can be reached 24/7 for your convenience at (609) 850-8284. We serve clients throughout Burlington County, including Evesham, Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Riverside, Palmyra, Pemberton, Bordentown, Burlington Township, Moorestown, Florence and Maple Shade. Call today to speak with an attorney today. The initial consultation is provided free of charge.

Juvenile Attorney for Burglary Charges in Maple Shade NJ

Similar to adult charges for Burglary, juvenile cases will be prosecuted pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2. If you read through this statute, you will find that the Burlington County Prosecutor must demonstrate certain proofs in order to obtain a delinquent adjudication of your child. However, these proofs will differ depending upon whether or not the juvenile was charged with second degree burglary or third degree burglary.

Third Degree Juvenile Burglary  

This offense is fairly straightforward, and only requires that the juvenile “entered either a research facility and/or a structure without permission; and did so with the purpose to commit an offense therein.”

Second Degree Juvenile Burglary

Similar to third degree burglary charges, the State must prove that the juvenile “entered either a research facility and/or a structure without permission; and did so with the purpose to commit an offense therein.” However, in addition to this, the State must also prove that during the commission of the offense the juvenile either (1) purposely, knowingly or recklessly inflicted, attempted to inflict or threatened to inflict bodily injury on anyone; or the juvenile was armed with or displayed what appeared to be explosives or a deadly weapon.

What is a “Structure”?

A structure has been defined as a building, room, ship, vessel, car, vehicle, or airplane.

What are the Juvenile Penalties for Burglary in New Jersey?

Juveniles are punished on a different scale then adult offenders. For those juveniles who are adjudicated delinquent on 3rd degree burglary charges, you will be subject to fines, probation and up to two (2) years in the Burlington County Juvenile Detention Center. For those juveniles who are adjudicated delinquent on 2nd degree burglary charges, you will be subject to fines, probation and up to three (3) years in the Burlington County Juvenile Detention Center.

Can My Child Avoid Detention for a Juvenile Offense?

Yes. The purpose of juvenile justice system is focused on rehabilitation over punishment. For juveniles who demonstrate a willingness and ability to overcome these setbacks, the court can consider alternatives to detention, such as a deferred disposition. Deferred disposition is a diversionary program for juveniles that result in the ultimate dismissal of the charges. For more information on this program, contact our office.

Burlington County Juvenile Defense Attorneys

Most parents do not need to be told that juvenile charges are a serious matter. Consulting with an experienced juvenile attorney can help guide you and your family in these difficult times. Whether your child was charged with marijuana possession, shoplifting, criminal mischief, arson, simple assault, aggravated assault or sexual assault, call (609) 850-8284. We are available day and night to consult with you and your family in your pending juvenile matter.