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Juvenile Crimes

Florida Attorney: CRAG CHADERTON LAW

Crag Chaderton Law understands that when a child or teenager faces legal trouble, the situation is incredibly stressful for the entire family. The juvenile justice system is different from the adult system, with a focus on rehabilitation, but the consequences of a juvenile offense can still have long-lasting effects on a young person's future. With over 40 years of combined experience in criminal law in Central Florida, Tyrone and Rachael Chaderton are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to juveniles and their families.

Understanding Juvenile Offenses in Florida:

Juvenile offenses can range from minor infractions to serious felonies. Some common examples include:

Truancy: Skipping school without a valid excuse.

Curfew Violations: Being out in public after designated hours.

Underage Drinking/Possession of Alcohol: Violating laws related to alcohol consumption before the age of 21.

Drug Possession: Possessing controlled substances.

Theft/Burglary: Stealing property or entering a building unlawfully.

Assault/Battery: Physical altercations or threats of violence.

Vandalism/Criminal Mischief: Damaging or destroying property.

Traffic Offenses: Violating traffic laws, sometimes with more severe consequences for young drivers.

Strategic Approach

our approach to juvenile crime defense is centered on early intervention, family involvement, and protecting a child’s long-term future. We begin by thoroughly examining the circumstances of the arrest—looking closely at whether law enforcement followed proper procedures, and ensuring the child's rights were upheld at every stage. Our team then works to redirect the case away from the criminal justice system whenever possible, pursuing alternatives such as diversion programs, counseling, and community service.

We collaborate with school administrators, social workers, and mental health professionals to build a full picture of the child’s environment and behavior, helping the court understand that one mistake shouldn’t define a young person’s life. Whether the charge involves theft, assault, drug possession, or truancy, we work tirelessly to shield our clients from lasting consequences like a permanent criminal record or time in detention. Our goal is always to secure a second chance—not just a legal defense, but a path forward.

Site Map

Juvenile Crimes

How we can help

Protecting the Child's Rights

Negotiating with Prosecutors

Developing a Strong Defense

Advocating for the Child's Best Interests

Expungement of Records

Providing Support and Guidance to the Family

If your child is facing juvenile charges in Central Florida, Crag Chaderton Law is here to help. Contact them at 407-301-4042 or cragchadertonlaw@gmail.com for a confidential consultation.

Protecting the Future of Minors Facing Criminal Charges in Orange County

When a child is arrested in Orlando or anywhere in Orange County, the entire family can be thrown into confusion and fear. We understand how overwhelming the Florida juvenile justice system can feel—and how much is at stake. Our goal is to provide families with clear guidance, aggressive legal representation, and a focus on protecting your child’s future.

What Happens When a Minor Is Arrested in Florida?

In Florida, juveniles (under 18) accused of breaking the law are processed through a separate legal system than adults. The juvenile justice system emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment, but the consequences of a conviction can still be serious and long-lasting.

We defend minors in Orlando and surrounding areas at every stage of the process:

Arrest or Law Enforcement Referral

The juvenile justice process begins when a minor is:

Arrested by Orlando Police or the Orange County Sheriff’s Office

Referred by a school or parent for criminal behavior (e.g., theft, battery, drug possession)

Rather than taking a juvenile directly to jail, law enforcement typically transports them to the Orange County Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC) for intake screening.

Juvenile Assessment and Detention Screening

At the JAC, a Risk Assessment Instrument (RAI) is used to evaluate:

The seriousness of the offense

The child’s prior record

Risk to public safety

Based on this, your child may be:

Released to a parent/guardian

Held under home detention

Taken to the Orange Regional Juvenile Detention Center (secured facility)

Your child has the right to a detention hearing within 24 hours—an important stage where a juvenile defense attorney can argue for their release.

Detention Hearing in Orange County Juvenile Court

This hearing determines whether your child will stay in detention for up to 21 days while awaiting trial. Crag Chaderton Law will:

Attend the hearing

Challenge the RAI score

Argue for release on the least restrictive terms possible

We represent juveniles in the Ninth Judicial Circuit Juvenile Court, which serves Orange and Osceola counties.

Prosecutor’s Decision and Formal Charges

The State Attorney’s Office in Orange County reviews the case and decides whether to:

File formal delinquency charges

Offer a diversion program

Attempt to direct file the case in adult court (for serious or violent crimes)

We work proactively to influence charging decisions early, pushing for diversion or reduced charges whenever possible.

Juvenile Diversion Programs in Orlando

If your child qualifies for a diversion program, it can result in the charges being dismissed upon successful completion. Options include:

Civil citation

Teen court

Community service

Counseling or drug rehabilitation

Restorative justice programs

Diversion keeps the juvenile out of court and avoids a criminal record. We help families navigate and secure these options.

Adjudicatory Hearing (Juvenile Trial)

If charges proceed, the case is heard in a bench trial before a judge (no jury). We will:

Challenge the State’s evidence

Cross-examine witnesses

Present a strong defense

Our goal is a not guilty verdict or dismissal, but we’re also skilled negotiators when a plea or alternative sentencing may be more beneficial.

Disposition (Sentencing) in Juvenile Court

If your child is found “delinquent,” the judge will decide a sentence. This may include:

Probation

Community service

Restitution to victims

Placement in a residential commitment program

Drug or behavioral counseling

We advocate for rehabilitative outcomes that protect your child’s education, record, and future opportunities.

Expunging a Juvenile Record in Florida

Many juvenile cases are eligible for sealing or expungement, meaning the offense won’t appear in background checks. Crag Chaderton Law helps families pursue record-clearing to ensure past mistakes don’t define a young person’s future.