Juvenile Defense

Protecting Your Child’s Future with Expert Legal Guidance

Facing a juvenile criminal charge can be overwhelming, especially for first-time offenders and their families. At Fred Lebleu Law, our Lake Charles juvenile defense attorneys guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring your child’s rights are protected and their future is preserved.

Our experienced team builds strong, strategic defenses, examining every detail of your case to reduce, modify, or dismiss charges whenever possible. We are committed to giving your child the best chance for a fresh start.

Understanding Juvenile Crimes in Louisiana

A juvenile crime is any offense committed by a minor. These cases are handled differently from adult crimes in Louisiana’s juvenile court system, with an emphasis on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

While many juvenile offenses are misdemeanors, serious felonies can also occur. Common juvenile crimes include:

• Homicide

• Theft

• Burglary

• Assault

• Vandalism

• Alcohol or drug possession

• Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Outcomes for juvenile cases depend on factors such as the severity of the offense, prior records, and the circumstances surrounding the crime. Possible consequences may include: juvenile detention, fines, probation, educational programs, community service, or a combination of these.

At Fred Lebleu Law, we focus on alternative solutions such as rehabilitative courses or community service to help your child stay on a positive path and avoid a permanent mark on their record.

How We Defend Juvenile Cases

Our Lake Charles juvenile defense attorneys fight aggressively to protect your child’s rights and future. We examine every piece of evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and employ all available legal strategies.

Common Defenses We Use

• No probable cause: If the arrest lacked legal justification, we can file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence, potentially leading to charge reduction or dismissal.

• Violation of constitutional rights: Minors are entitled to special protections, including parental notification and the right to have a guardian present. Statements obtained in violation of these rights can be suppressed.

• Missing or faulty video evidence: We review all available bodycam or surveillance footage, and challenge cases where exculpatory evidence is lost or mishandled.

• Warrant issues: Searches or seizures conducted without a valid warrant can be challenged to protect your child’s rights.

• Motion to dismiss: If the evidence is insufficient or circumstances do not justify prosecution, we can request the case be dismissed at the outset.