At Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we understand that young people facing criminal charges require and deserve more than just legal expertise—they need holistic, compassionate representation that considers their unique challenges and opportunities for rehabilitation.  Adolescence is a critical developmental period, and we believe the juvenile justice system should prioritize opportunities for growth, education, and rehabilitation, rather than simply punishment. We are committed to providing compassionate, aggressive, and strategic representation for minors accused of any criminal offenses.

We represent juveniles in all types of cases, including, but not limited to:

  • Theft & Property Crimes: Shoplifting, grand theft, vehicle theft, burglary, vandalism, arson
  • Violent Offenses: Assault, battery, robbery, school fights
  • Drug-Related Charges: Possession, sales, underage use of marijuana or controlled substances
  • Sex Offenses: Sexting, sexual assault, indecent exposure
  • Weapon Offenses: Possession of firearms, knives or other weapons, brandishing
  • Cyber & Internet Crimes: Cyberbullying, hacking, identity theft, online threats
  • Traffic & Vehicle Offenses: Driving without a license, driving on a suspended license, DUI, reckless driving, hit and run
  • Status Offenses: Truancy, curfew violations, underage drinking
  • Gang-Related Allegations: Enhancement charges, group-related crimes
  • School-Based Offenses: Threats, possession of contraband, disruption, bullying
  • Domestic Violence: Juvenile domestic violence cases are complex and require sensitive handling. We provide aggressive defense while advocating for rehabilitation and addressing the underlying issues.
  • Probation Violations: If your child has violated the terms of their probation, we work to avoid additional detention or penalties by addressing the violation head-on and presenting a strong case for leniency.
  • Homicide (Murder and Manslaughter): Juvenile homicide cases are extremely serious and can carry severe consequences, including life sentences. We provide a powerful defense for minors facing charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, manslaughter, or other related offenses. Our attorneys understand the intricacies of these sensitive cases and will fight to mitigate the charges and protect your child’s future.
  • Transfer Cases (Waiver to Adult Court): In certain cases, a juvenile who is charged with a serious offense may be “transferred” or “waived” to adult court. We aggressively fight to ensure that minors are not unfairly tried as adults.

Direct File and Transfer Cases: When Juveniles Face Adult Charges

In some serious cases, a juvenile may be transferred to adult court, where the penalties are far more severe and rehabilitation options are limited. This process is often contentious, and we are committed to aggressively fighting transfer to ensure that minors are not unfairly tried as adults. In California, prosecutors may request a “transfer hearing” to move a minor’s case out of juvenile court, particularly in cases involving:

  • Murder or attempted murder
  • Rape and other forcible sex offenses
  • Armed robbery
  • Certain gang-related crimes
  • Crimes involving great bodily injury or firearm use

Although California law no longer permits prosecutors to “direct file” charges in adult court without a judge’s approval (as of Proposition 57, passed in 2016), the transfer process remains a critical stage in many serious juvenile cases. At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we fight aggressively to keep cases in juvenile court, where rehabilitation—not punishment—is the focus. We present compelling evidence about our clients’ background, potential for reform, and brain development to show why transfer to adult court is not appropriate.

Juvenile vs. Adult Court: What’s the Difference?

Juvenile law is distinct from adult criminal law in many important ways. The juvenile justice system is designed to focus on rehabilitation, education, and the potential for a young person to reform, rather than simply punishing them. As a result, penalties and legal strategies are often very different from those applied to adults. That’s why it’s essential to have an attorney that understands the nuances of juvenile defense.

One of the most important distinctions in California criminal law is the difference between an adult conviction and a sustained juvenile delinquency petition.

  • In juvenile court, minors are not “convicted” of crimes—they instead face a legal process where the court determines whether the allegations are “true” following a hearing or trial. If so, the petition is “sustained,” which is the juvenile system’s equivalent of a conviction—but with key differences.
  • A sustained petition generally does not result in a criminal record in the same way an adult conviction does. In many cases, juvenile records can be sealed when the minor completes probation and remains out of trouble.
  • The juvenile system emphasizes rehabilitation, education, and treatment over incarceration. In contrast, adult court is focused more on punishment and can result in jail, prison, and a permanent criminal record.

Knowledge and command of these distinctions are critical when negotiating outcomes or fighting to keep a case in juvenile court—especially when prosecutors seek a transfer to adult court for serious charges.

Understanding Juvenile Justice: The Role of Brain Development

Scientific research has proven what many parents already know: adolescents do not think like adults. The teenage brain is still developing—particularly in the areas responsible for impulse control, decision-making, and understanding long-term consequences. Because of this, juveniles are more likely to act on emotion or peer pressure and less likely to fully understand the risks of their actions.

The juvenile justice system is designed to be rehabilitative rather than punitive, recognizing that minors are still in a critical stage of emotional, cognitive, and social development. The penalties and legal strategies available in juvenile cases are often far more lenient than those in adult court. However, in certain cases—such as transfer cases where a juvenile can be moved to adult court—the stakes can be extremely high. That’s why it’s essential to have an attorney with experience navigating the juvenile justice system, who is prepared to advocate for your child’s best interests in both juvenile and adult court settings.

At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we use this science as part of our defense strategy. We work to educate prosecutors and judges about how brain development impacts behavior, and we advocate for alternatives to incarceration that focus on growth, learning, and second chances. Our goal is not only to protect your child legally, but also to ensure the justice system treats them with the developmental consideration they deserve.

Our Approach: Protecting Your Child’s Future

Juvenile cases require a defense strategy that recognizes both the legal complexities of the juvenile justice system and the unique developmental needs of minors.  The Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright takes a holistic approach to juvenile defense, carefully considering all aspects of your child’s life and background. We know that many young people find themselves in legal trouble due to circumstances such as:

  • Family Issues: Difficult home environments or strained relationships with parents can contribute to poor decision-making.
  • Peer Pressure: Adolescence is a time when peer influence can be overwhelming, and sometimes, poor choices are made under peer pressure.
  • Mental Health Concerns: Many minors who encounter the criminal justice system are struggling with untreated mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, or trauma.
  • Substance Abuse: Drug and alcohol abuse is a common factor in many juvenile offenses, and we focus on addressing the root causes through treatment rather than just focusing on punishment

We are fully committed to advocating for rehabilitation, education, and second chances for young people in the criminal justice system. Whether your child is facing minor charges or serious offenses, we take a compassionate personalized approach to each case, working closely with you to develop a defense team and strategy specifically tailored to your child’s specific needs.

Some of the strategies we use include:

  • Challenging Transfer to Adult Court: For minors charged with serious crimes, we fight to keep the case in juvenile court, where rehabilitation-focused programs are available. In transfer cases, we utilize our network of investigators and experts to develop and present compelling arguments to prevent transfer to adult court.
  • Negotiating Diversion Programs: We advocate for diversion programs designed to keep minors out of detention facilities and promote rehabilitation through community service, counseling, or educational programs.
  • Alternative Sentencing Options: In cases where a sustained petition (aka a juvenile “conviction”) is likely, we work to secure sentences that focus on rehabilitation rather than incarceration. This may include probation, counseling, restitution, or house arrest.
  • Expungement and Record Sealing: If your child has a prior juvenile record, we explore options for sealing their record to give them a clean slate and prevent future challenges related to employment, education, or housing.
  • Collaborating with Mental Health and Counseling Professionals: Many juveniles face underlying mental health or substance abuse issues that contribute to criminal behavior. We utilize a network psychologists, counselors, and rehabilitation specialists to ensure that your child receives the treatment and care they need.
  • Aggressive Defense in Court: Whether the case involves a misdemeanor or serious felony, we are prepared to provide a vigorous defense in court. In serious cases such as homicide or assault, we work to protect your child’s rights and fight aggressively in their defense.

Why Choose Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright for Juvenile Defense?

  • Experienced in Juvenile Law: With years of experience handling juvenile cases, we have a deep understanding of juvenile law, the intricacies of the juvenile justice system, and the best strategies for defending young clients. 
  • Dedicated Advocacy: We advocate for the best interests of your child, aiming to avoid the harsh consequences of adult court systems and secure a second chance for a bright future.
  • Personalized, Compassionate Approach: We take the time to understand your child’s unique situation, considering family dynamics, school performance, mental health, and peer relationships. We work closely with you to build a defense strategy that aligns with your child’s future and long-term well-being.
  • Proven Success in Complex Cases: Whether it’s challenging a transfer case or defending against homicide charges, we have the experience and resources to handle even the most complex juvenile cases. Our firm has a strong track record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients, including reduced charges, dismissals, and alternative sentences.
  • Holistic Defense: Beyond the courtroom, we work to address the underlying factors that may have led to your child’s criminal charges. We connect you with resources for mental health treatment, substance abuse counseling, and educational support, ensuring that your child has the best chance for success.

A Future Worth Defending

Your child deserves more than just a legal defense—they deserve a chance to grow, change, and move forward with a brighter future. At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we work with families to resolve cases in a way that protects your child’s record and opens the door to rehabilitation, not lifelong consequences.

Contact us today for a free confidential consultation. Let us help protect your child’s rights—and their future.

Juvenile Defense

At Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we understand that young people facing criminal charges require and deserve more than just legal expertise—they need holistic, compassionate representation that considers their unique challenges and opportunities for rehabilitation.  Adolescence is a critical developmental period, and we believe the juvenile justice system should prioritize opportunities for growth, education, and rehabilitation, rather than simply punishment. We are committed to providing compassionate, aggressive, and strategic representation for minors accused of any criminal offenses.

We represent juveniles in all types of cases, including, but not limited to:

  • Theft & Property Crimes: Shoplifting, grand theft, vehicle theft, burglary, vandalism, arson
  • Violent Offenses: Assault, battery, robbery, school fights
  • Drug-Related Charges: Possession, sales, underage use of marijuana or controlled substances
  • Sex Offenses: Sexting, sexual assault, indecent exposure
  • Weapon Offenses: Possession of firearms, knives or other weapons, brandishing
  • Cyber & Internet Crimes: Cyberbullying, hacking, identity theft, online threats
  • Traffic & Vehicle Offenses: Driving without a license, driving on a suspended license, DUI, reckless driving, hit and run
  • Status Offenses: Truancy, curfew violations, underage drinking
  • Gang-Related Allegations: Enhancement charges, group-related crimes
  • School-Based Offenses: Threats, possession of contraband, disruption, bullying
  • Domestic Violence: Juvenile domestic violence cases are complex and require sensitive handling. We provide aggressive defense while advocating for rehabilitation and addressing the underlying issues.
  • Probation Violations: If your child has violated the terms of their probation, we work to avoid additional detention or penalties by addressing the violation head-on and presenting a strong case for leniency.
  • Homicide (Murder and Manslaughter): Juvenile homicide cases are extremely serious and can carry severe consequences, including life sentences. We provide a powerful defense for minors facing charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, manslaughter, or other related offenses. Our attorneys understand the intricacies of these sensitive cases and will fight to mitigate the charges and protect your child’s future.
  • Transfer Cases (Waiver to Adult Court): In certain cases, a juvenile who is charged with a serious offense may be “transferred” or “waived” to adult court. We aggressively fight to ensure that minors are not unfairly tried as adults.

Direct File and Transfer Cases: When Juveniles Face Adult Charges

In some serious cases, a juvenile may be transferred to adult court, where the penalties are far more severe and rehabilitation options are limited. This process is often contentious, and we are committed to aggressively fighting transfer to ensure that minors are not unfairly tried as adults. In California, prosecutors may request a “transfer hearing” to move a minor’s case out of juvenile court, particularly in cases involving:

  • Murder or attempted murder
  • Rape and other forcible sex offenses
  • Armed robbery
  • Certain gang-related crimes
  • Crimes involving great bodily injury or firearm use

Although California law no longer permits prosecutors to “direct file” charges in adult court without a judge’s approval (as of Proposition 57, passed in 2016), the transfer process remains a critical stage in many serious juvenile cases. At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we fight aggressively to keep cases in juvenile court, where rehabilitation—not punishment—is the focus. We present compelling evidence about our clients’ background, potential for reform, and brain development to show why transfer to adult court is not appropriate.

Juvenile vs. Adult Court: What’s the Difference?

Juvenile law is distinct from adult criminal law in many important ways. The juvenile justice system is designed to focus on rehabilitation, education, and the potential for a young person to reform, rather than simply punishing them. As a result, penalties and legal strategies are often very different from those applied to adults. That’s why it’s essential to have an attorney that understands the nuances of juvenile defense.

One of the most important distinctions in California criminal law is the difference between an adult conviction and a sustained juvenile delinquency petition.

  • In juvenile court, minors are not “convicted” of crimes—they instead face a legal process where the court determines whether the allegations are “true” following a hearing or trial. If so, the petition is “sustained,” which is the juvenile system’s equivalent of a conviction—but with key differences.
  • A sustained petition generally does not result in a criminal record in the same way an adult conviction does. In many cases, juvenile records can be sealed when the minor completes probation and remains out of trouble.
  • The juvenile system emphasizes rehabilitation, education, and treatment over incarceration. In contrast, adult court is focused more on punishment and can result in jail, prison, and a permanent criminal record.

Knowledge and command of these distinctions are critical when negotiating outcomes or fighting to keep a case in juvenile court—especially when prosecutors seek a transfer to adult court for serious charges.

Understanding Juvenile Justice: The Role of Brain Development

Scientific research has proven what many parents already know: adolescents do not think like adults. The teenage brain is still developing—particularly in the areas responsible for impulse control, decision-making, and understanding long-term consequences. Because of this, juveniles are more likely to act on emotion or peer pressure and less likely to fully understand the risks of their actions.

The juvenile justice system is designed to be rehabilitative rather than punitive, recognizing that minors are still in a critical stage of emotional, cognitive, and social development. The penalties and legal strategies available in juvenile cases are often far more lenient than those in adult court. However, in certain cases—such as transfer cases where a juvenile can be moved to adult court—the stakes can be extremely high. That’s why it’s essential to have an attorney with experience navigating the juvenile justice system, who is prepared to advocate for your child’s best interests in both juvenile and adult court settings.

At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we use this science as part of our defense strategy. We work to educate prosecutors and judges about how brain development impacts behavior, and we advocate for alternatives to incarceration that focus on growth, learning, and second chances. Our goal is not only to protect your child legally, but also to ensure the justice system treats them with the developmental consideration they deserve.

Our Approach: Protecting Your Child’s Future

Juvenile cases require a defense strategy that recognizes both the legal complexities of the juvenile justice system and the unique developmental needs of minors.  The Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright takes a holistic approach to juvenile defense, carefully considering all aspects of your child’s life and background. We know that many young people find themselves in legal trouble due to circumstances such as:

  • Family Issues: Difficult home environments or strained relationships with parents can contribute to poor decision-making.
  • Peer Pressure: Adolescence is a time when peer influence can be overwhelming, and sometimes, poor choices are made under peer pressure.
  • Mental Health Concerns: Many minors who encounter the criminal justice system are struggling with untreated mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, or trauma.
  • Substance Abuse: Drug and alcohol abuse is a common factor in many juvenile offenses, and we focus on addressing the root causes through treatment rather than just focusing on punishment

We are fully committed to advocating for rehabilitation, education, and second chances for young people in the criminal justice system. Whether your child is facing minor charges or serious offenses, we take a compassionate personalized approach to each case, working closely with you to develop a defense team and strategy specifically tailored to your child’s specific needs.

Some of the strategies we use include:

  • Challenging Transfer to Adult Court: For minors charged with serious crimes, we fight to keep the case in juvenile court, where rehabilitation-focused programs are available. In transfer cases, we utilize our network of investigators and experts to develop and present compelling arguments to prevent transfer to adult court.
  • Negotiating Diversion Programs: We advocate for diversion programs designed to keep minors out of detention facilities and promote rehabilitation through community service, counseling, or educational programs.
  • Alternative Sentencing Options: In cases where a sustained petition (aka a juvenile “conviction”) is likely, we work to secure sentences that focus on rehabilitation rather than incarceration. This may include probation, counseling, restitution, or house arrest.
  • Expungement and Record Sealing: If your child has a prior juvenile record, we explore options for sealing their record to give them a clean slate and prevent future challenges related to employment, education, or housing.
  • Collaborating with Mental Health and Counseling Professionals: Many juveniles face underlying mental health or substance abuse issues that contribute to criminal behavior. We utilize a network psychologists, counselors, and rehabilitation specialists to ensure that your child receives the treatment and care they need.
  • Aggressive Defense in Court: Whether the case involves a misdemeanor or serious felony, we are prepared to provide a vigorous defense in court. In serious cases such as homicide or assault, we work to protect your child’s rights and fight aggressively in their defense.

Why Choose Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright for Juvenile Defense?

  • Experienced in Juvenile Law: With years of experience handling juvenile cases, we have a deep understanding of juvenile law, the intricacies of the juvenile justice system, and the best strategies for defending young clients. 
  • Dedicated Advocacy: We advocate for the best interests of your child, aiming to avoid the harsh consequences of adult court systems and secure a second chance for a bright future.
  • Personalized, Compassionate Approach: We take the time to understand your child’s unique situation, considering family dynamics, school performance, mental health, and peer relationships. We work closely with you to build a defense strategy that aligns with your child’s future and long-term well-being.
  • Proven Success in Complex Cases: Whether it’s challenging a transfer case or defending against homicide charges, we have the experience and resources to handle even the most complex juvenile cases. Our firm has a strong track record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients, including reduced charges, dismissals, and alternative sentences.
  • Holistic Defense: Beyond the courtroom, we work to address the underlying factors that may have led to your child’s criminal charges. We connect you with resources for mental health treatment, substance abuse counseling, and educational support, ensuring that your child has the best chance for success.

A Future Worth Defending

Your child deserves more than just a legal defense—they deserve a chance to grow, change, and move forward with a brighter future. At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we work with families to resolve cases in a way that protects your child’s record and opens the door to rehabilitation, not lifelong consequences.

Contact us today for a free confidential consultation. Let us help protect your child’s rights—and their future.