Is a Public Defender Good Enough for My Child’s Criminal Charge, or Should I Hire a Private Criminal Attorney in Columbia, MO?
When a Minor Is Charged With a Crime, You Need to Prioritize Your Legal Defense. Learn More About Public Defenders & Private Attorneys With Columbia’s Haden & Colbert
After receiving the news that your child has been charged with a criminal offense, it is important to stay calm and think about the next steps. Whether they’ve been caught with alcohol, used a fake ID, or worse, charged with a DUI or DWI, navigating the justice system for minors is a frightening process for both you and your child.
When it comes to legal representation for juveniles in Missouri, you’ll have two options: a public defender or a private attorney. To support your loved one and their right to a fair defense, you must carefully review the differences before choosing. Think about these distinctions as you follow along and act with the future in mind.
What is the difference between a private lawyer & public defender in Missouri?
Public defenders and private attorneys are both individuals who are licensed to practice criminal defense, but a few key details set them apart. These differences in appointment, cost, and other factors can heavily impact your experience and outcome in Boone County court. With a minor involved, the details can be even more complex.
A public defender is a licensed attorney who is appointed by the court where your child’s case is being reviewed. Public defenders are often free or very affordable, but you must qualify for certain financial requirements and apply for one from the court. In the Columbia, MO area, you’ll be assigned a lawyer from the Missouri State Public Defender System.
Private attorneys have a much different process. This is a lawyer that you hire on your own to build a defense for your child. While public defenders may cover a broad range of practices, it is common for private attorneys to specialize heavily in the cases you need representation for (drug charges, traffic violations, etc.). You will need to understand more about public defenders and private attorneys before you can move forward with the most logical approach for your child.
The juvenile justice system vs. the court system for adults in Columbia, MO
Missouri courts judge criminal offenses differently based on whether the defendant is a minor or an adult. While adults can be tried in front of a jury, juvenile cases are typically focused on rehabilitation in hopes that a young person can preserve their record and future. In some cases, however, a minor charged with a felony may be tried as an adult in Boone County court.
This also goes for the publicity of a person’s record. Misdemeanor charges against a minor are often inaccessible to the public, while more serious offenses might still be searchable during background checks. If a lawyer can help reduce your child’s charge or even expunge it from their record, you can feel more confident about their education, career, and life choices coming out of a stressful situation.
Considerations of working with a public defender in a criminal case for minors in the Columbia area
One of the most conflicting things about public defenders is their schedule; with such a large caseload working on multiple cases, they may not be able to give your child their full, undivided attention. Since public defenders in Columbia, MO are court-appointed, you also don’t have the choice of who represents them. While many experienced public defenders exist, they often lack the time and availability to work in your interests, making it a bit of a risk to trust one for a juvenile criminal case.
Benefits of hiring a Columbia, MO private attorney for your child’s criminal charge
If you’re seeking counsel that utilizes more communication and research into your loved one’s case, it is worth the fee to assign a private juvenile attorney. Law firms in Columbia, MO are more selective about their clients, especially when it comes to charges against a minor. Not only will they have more time to review the details of your child’s case, but more resources to support them and experience in specific practice areas. This can make all the difference when your child is at risk of suspension, losing their license, expensive fines, or even jail time.
Why Haden & Colbert is the law firm for your child’s criminal charge in Columbia, MO
Have you decided to hire a private criminal defense attorney in Boone County? For personalized consultations and local knowledge, consider the lawyers at Haden & Colbert. Our firm is versed in a wide range of criminal charges for individuals under 21 years old, from fake IDs to minor in possession cases.
Over the years, countless parents of high school students and college attendees have reached out to us for legal advice, and we’re always ready to listen to your concerns. This is one of the most uncertain times for your child, but our team is committed to exploring their case and providing a strong defense in court.
Get in Touch With Our Columbia-Based Criminal Defense Attorneys & Find Representation for Your Child
The longtime attorneys at Haden & Colbert will be honest and thoughtful about your child’s criminal record, looking for a path to the most favorable outcome in Columbia, MO. If your child is attending the University of Missouri, Stephens College, Columbia College, or any other school in Boone County, we will build a case that advocates for their educational and professional opportunities. Schedule your first consultation with one of our criminal defense lawyers today.
