A Look at Juvenile Crimes in Texas

Posted By Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass || 12-Apr-2012

In Texas, juvenile crimes are taken very seriously. For many offenses, the consequences are focused around rehabilitation and changing behavior, not penalizing the offender with jail time. Here are a few of the most common juvenile offenses from a criminal defense attorney.

• Alcohol consumption. A minor who consumes, possesses, or attempts to purchase alcohol will face a fine, mandatory community service, and a suspension of his driver’s license. He must also attend an alcohol awareness class.
• Driving under the influence. In Texas, it is illegal for minors to drive if they have consumed any alcohol, even if their blood alcohol level is below the legal limit of 0.08%. This offense also carries penalties including fines, community service, license suspension, and alcohol awareness classes. If a minor is convicted of a subsequent DUI, the penalties become more severe.
• Shoplifting. If convicted of shoplifting, a minor generally won’t have to spend time in jail, but he will have to attend rehabilitation activities like counseling and classes.
• Sexting. Until recently, sending sexually explicit text messages or cell phone pictures to another teenager could have gotten a juvenile convicted of child pornography charges. Now, teenagers accused of this crime are charged with a misdemeanor and must attend a class about the dangers of sexting.
• Drug possession. Juveniles who are arrested for possession of a controlled substance may receive probation and counseling, unless the offense is severe enough to warrant being charged as an adult—for example, if there are large amounts of drugs involved.

If your son or daughter has been arrested for a crime, call as soon as possible. The Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass offers free consultations to help you figure out what to do in this stressful situation, and we can work out a payment plan that will work for your family’s finances. Call to reach our office.