Legal Question in Criminal Law in Arizona

question on juvenile law

my stepson was caught burglarizing in Arizona, he is 16. It has been a week and we have heard nothing. He was injured and released to his mother. He is guilty of this, but we would like to know what the punishment is for this crime when committed by a 16 year old? why have we not been notified of anything? what is the worst case sinerio that he could be charged with? will he be appointed a public defender?

thank you so much for your help


Asked on 2/20/02, 4:01 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Charles Aspinwall Charles S. Aspinwall, J.D., LLC

Re: question on juvenile law

Your son may be eligible to be treated as a juvenile offender or a first-time offender depending upon his criminal history, whether anyone else was injured, the amount involved, and various factors.

If he cannot afford private counsel the Public Defender will be appointed to represent him.

He should consult with a lawyer to determine his options, and certainly before his next court appearance.

It is not at all unusual for charges to take several weeks before they are filed. The system moves slowly.

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Answered on 2/21/02, 11:45 am
Jason Lamm Jason D. Lamm Attorney at Law

Re: question on juvenile law

There are many variables to consider: his record, the specific type of burglary (resulting in a different class felony), etc. He may be charged as a juvenile, as an adult, or not at all depending on the circumstances. No matter what, he needs a lawyer immediately to assess the situation and work on the matter proactively.

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Answered on 2/22/02, 9:15 am


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