More Than 105 Combined Years Of Experience At Your Side In Illinois

Juvenile Law Defense Attorneys Serving Young Clients in Northern Illinois

​Establishing a criminal record as a juvenile (under the age of 18) can adversely affect the rest of your life, hampering your opportunities, freedom, and future career. A criminal record can affect your ability to get a job or apartment, obtain good credit scores, receive acceptance to colleges, and obtain student loans. If you or a loved one is facing charges as a juvenile, contact Beck & Houlihan, P.C., today. Our attorneys have been representing juveniles in DuPage County and the surrounding areas since 2001. We provide skilled representation in criminal defense matters where juveniles face legal repercussions for their actions.

Juvenile Crimes in Illinois

Crimes committed by juveniles are typically prosecuted in juvenile court, and the judge possesses the discretion to make particular arrangements for the accused minor, based on their best interests. For example, when a minor is found to be guilty for a violation of a portion of the Illinois Controlled Substances Act and made a ward of the court, the court may order the juvenile offender to undergo an assessment, counseling, or treatment in a drug rehabilitation program approved by the Department of Human Services. The decision is made at the court’s discretion and will inevitably vary on a case-by-case basis. Under Illinois law, the definition of delinquent minor does not apply to any minor who, at the time of the offense, was at least 15 years of age and charged with any of the following:

  • First-degree murder
  • Aggravated criminal sexual assault
  • Aggravated battery with a firearm
  • Armed robbery committed with a firearm
  • Aggravated vehicular hijacking committed with a firearm
  • Unlawful use of weapons while in school

​These individuals are prosecuted in adult court. There are other circumstances that allow juveniles to be tried as adults. If tried as an adult, you will face more severe penalties and consequences. In addition to the crimes mentioned above, juveniles in Illinois may also face charges in adult court for underage drinking, or any other alcohol-related crimes, such as DUI traffic violations and ordinance violations. At Beck & Houlihan, P.C., we regularly defend juveniles who have been charged with drinking while underage and can assist you in your case.

Contact a DuPage County Juvenile Law Attorney

​It is crucial that, if you have been arrested as a juvenile, you seek the assistance of an experienced attorney. As a juvenile, you are less likely to understand your rights (such as the right to remain silent), potentially leading to confessions that could be used to incriminate you. We will arrange your case in order to ensure that your rights are protected.

If your child has been charged as a juvenile or an adult, it is important to reach out to a skilled attorney today to ensure that he or she is protected throughout the process. If you need the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney in DuPage, Kane or Kendall counties, contact Beck & Houlihan, P.C., today at 630-398-3185. We are prepared to begin working on your case immediately.