Juveniles and the Consent Decree: A Second Chance for Young Offenders

Navigating the criminal justice system can be intimidating, especially for juveniles and their families. When a young person is charged with a criminal offense, their future can hang in the balance. However, in Pennsylvania, there’s an option that offers a second chance: the Consent Decree. As an experienced attorney at Frank Walker Law, I’ve helped many families understand and utilize this important legal tool. Here’s what you need to know about how the consent decree works and how it can benefit juveniles.

What Is a Consent Decree?

A consent decree is a legal agreement in juvenile court that allows a young person to resolve their case without an adjudication of delinquency—essentially avoiding a criminal conviction. Instead of going through a formal trial or receiving a harsher punishment, the juvenile agrees to meet certain conditions over a set period of time. If they successfully complete these conditions, the charges are dismissed, and their record remains clean.

Who Is Eligible for a Consent Decree?

Not every juvenile is eligible for a consent decree. Eligibility typically depends on:

• The Nature of the Offense: Consent decrees are often available for first-time or low-level offenders. Serious crimes, such as violent felonies, may not qualify.
• The Juvenile’s Record: A clean or minimal criminal history increases the chances of being offered a consent decree.
• The Approval of the Parties Involved: Both the juvenile’s attorney and the district attorney must agree to the consent decree. The judge must also approve the agreement.

Conditions of a Consent Decree

Under a consent decree, the juvenile agrees to comply with specific conditions for a set period, usually six months to one year. These conditions may include:

• Attending School Regularly: Ensuring the juvenile stays on track with their education.
• Community Service: Giving back to the community as a form of restitution.
• Counseling or Therapy: Addressing underlying issues such as anger management or substance abuse.
• Avoiding Further Legal Trouble: Committing no new offenses during the period of the agreement.
• Meeting with a Probation Officer: Regular check-ins to ensure compliance.

Failure to meet these conditions can result in the case being reopened and proceeding to formal adjudication.

Benefits of a Consent Decree

The consent decree offers several advantages for juveniles and their families:

1. Avoiding a Criminal Record

   • A criminal record can have long-lasting consequences, affecting college admissions, employment opportunities, and more. A consent decree helps juveniles avoid these roadblocks.

2. Focusing on Rehabilitation

   • The juvenile justice system prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment. A consent decree allows young offenders to learn from their mistakes without facing the harsh consequences of a conviction.

3. Preserving Future Opportunities

   • With no record of delinquency, the juvenile can move forward with their life without the stigma of a criminal past.

4. Lower Stress for Families

   • Resolving the case through a consent decree is often less stressful and less costly than a prolonged court battle.

How an Attorney Can Help

Although the consent decree is an excellent option, it’s not automatically granted. You need a skilled attorney to:

• Advocate for your child’s eligibility.
• Negotiate favorable terms with the district attorney.
• Ensure the juvenile understands and complies with the conditions.

At Frank Walker Law, we have extensive experience handling juvenile cases. We’ll work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your child.

What Happens After a Consent Decree?

If the juvenile successfully completes the terms of the consent decree, the charges are dismissed, and the case is closed. Additionally, Pennsylvania law allows for the expungement of juvenile records, meaning any trace of the case can be removed from public view. This provides the juvenile with a truly fresh start.

Conclusion

A mistake made in youth doesn’t have to define the rest of your child’s life. The consent decree is a valuable tool that gives juveniles the chance to learn, grow, and move on without the burden of a criminal record. If your child is facing charges, contact Frank Walker Law today. We’ll guide you through the process, fight for your child’s rights, and help secure their future.

When your child’s future is at stake, trust Frank Walker Law to provide the compassionate and aggressive representation you need. Call us today for a consultation.

About Frank Walker Law

Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.

Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.

If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.