Fighting To Preserve The Future Of Youthful Offenders
If your child has been charged with a crime, they need competent and diligent representation that is prepared to advise them of their rights and represent them in a court of law. Criminal charges can have devastating consequences on adolescents and their families, which is why Louis Mussari is committed to ensuring that juvenile cases remain in the juvenile justice system.
Minors may not be able to fully comprehend the consequences of their actions and how these situations may impact their future, which is why they need to be represented by an experienced attorney.
Many juvenile offenders are encouraged to take a plea, depending on their case. However, this may not be the appropriate decision for every scenario. Louis is prepared and experienced to fight for your child in court or negotiate a plea when necessary.
Louis Mussari has extensive Jury Trial experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. This experience gives him a unique qualification to represent clients and makes him a knowledgeable and confident litigator. Louis served in the Erie County District Attorney’s office for 10 years and handled numerous cases that involve adolescent offenders. Offenses he has handled include:
- Drug use and selling drugs
- Theft and burglary
- Assault and violent crimes
- Carjacking or robbery
- Rape and sexual offenses
- Underage DUI
- Weapon offenses
In the State of New York, there are three categories of youths who are accused of committing crimes. These categories include Juvenile Delinquent, Juvenile Offender, and Youthful Offender. A juvenile delinquent is a child between the ages of 7 and 16 who have been accused of a felony or misdemeanor. These cases are handled in Family Court.
A juvenile offender is a child who is between the ages of 13 and 18 and has committed a serious or violent felony. These cases are handled in adult criminal court unless it is determined to be appropriately moved to Family Court.
If it is moved to Family Court, the case is treated as a juvenile delinquency matter. If the case stays in criminal court, the individual is subjected to adult penalties and a criminal record, unless youthful offender status is granted.
A youthful offender is an individual who is between 16 and 18 years old and has committed a criminal offense. Youthful offender status provides an opportunity for reduced sentencing or avoidance of a criminal record. An individual between the age of 13 and 17 who faces trial in adult criminal court as a juvenile offender may be eligible for youthful offender status.
An additional category is an adolescent offender. An adolescent offender is a 16 or 17-year-old individual who has committed a felony. These cases are also heard in the Youth Part of the Supreme or County Court and may be transferred to Family Court. If the case stays in the Youth Part of the Supreme or County Court, the individual is treated as an adult, and their age will be considered during sentencing.
Adolescents charged with a crime require a dedicated and skilled advocate to fight for them and act in their best interests. Louis Mussari is committed to fighting for your child as well as ensuring their rights will be protected in a court of law, no matter the charge.