Orange County juvenile lawyer Glenn Osajima, an experienced juvenile criminal defense attorney, has successfully represented juveniles accused of a felony, a misdemeanor or serious crimes ranging from murder, attempted murder, car jacking, armed robbery, hate crimes, assault and battery, car theft, drug possession and sales, DUI, rape, and molestation.

Mr. Osajima works with parents and charged juveniles in Orange County, Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County or Riverside County to provide guidance and structure to salvage their future.

In California, juveniles are defined as minors if under the age of 18. Juveniles are treated differently than adult offenders and the general goal of the juvenile system is rehabilitation as opposed to punishment. However, the penalties in the juvenile system can still be severe. Some offenses, such as truancy and breaking curfew, are unique to juveniles, and would not be illegal if the accused were an adult. The juvenile justice system generally moves much more quickly than does the adult criminal justice system. Don't wait to hire a good juvenile defense lawyer to represent your child. Call Orange County juvenile lawyer Glenn Osajima at: 1-866-770-2194.

There are separate courts and rules that govern the juvenile process. The juvenile court system will generally make every effort to rehabilitate the child rather than simply incarcerate him. Only in extreme cases, such as serious felonies, usually involving allegations of violence or the use of a deadly weapon, will a juvenile be tried as an adult. The juvenile courts may hold a hearing to determine whether to transfer the juvenile to the adult court system. This is called a "fitness hearing." The court will base its decision to transfer on the following factors:

• The seriousness of the offense
• The child's criminal sophistication
• Previous criminal record
• Previous attempts to rehabilitate the juvenile offender
• The court's belief that future attempts at rehabilitation will be unsuccessful

While many of the laws governing juveniles may differ from the adult system, the rights of the juvenile are virtually identical to those of adults:

• A juvenile must be read his Miranda rights prior to police questioning
• A juvenile has the right to have an attorney present during interrogation.
• A juvenile has the right to know the specific charges being brought by the State.
• A juvenile has rights against self-incrimination.
• A juvenile has the right to confront his accuser and examine witnesses.
• A juvenile has the right to appeal the court's decision.

If a juvenile finds himself in a situation involving the police or other law enforcement, please remember the following information:

• You do not have to consent to a search. Even if you are arrested you do not have to consent to a search of your house, auto etc. Your person will be searched without consent for booking purposes.
• If you are asked to give permission to search you should politely but firmly decline. If the police say they have a search warrant, ask to see it.
• Do not resist arrest.
• Do not volunteer information or answer questions without your attorney present.
• Provide only your name, address, and phone number.
• Call your parents as soon as possible.
• Insist that your parents and/or an attorney be present during questioning.
• Do not discuss your case with anyone other than your attorney.
• Do not discuss your case with your friends or classmates.
• Finally, do not attempt to represent yourself in court. Hire an experienced Orange County juvenile lawyer.