Get help from a juvenile defense lawyer in DC

A juvenile defense lawyer represents minors charged with crimes, working to keep the case in juvenile court, protect the child's record and focus on rehabilitation.

Questions to ask before you hire
  • Have you handled this exact charge in DC courts?
  • What could happen — fines, probation, jail, a record?
  • Can this be reduced, dismissed or kept off my record?
  • Is your fee flat or hourly, and what does it cover?
  • Who will be in court with me?
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District of Columbia Criminal Law guides

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Plain-English guides to the law. General information, not legal advice.

Your Rights If Arrested in District of Columbia
Your federal constitutional rights apply if you're arrested in District of Columbia — Miranda, right to remain silent, right to counsel. Phone-call rule: Reasonable phone access.
Assault Charges in District of Columbia
District of Columbia assault charges: simple assault is typically Misdemeanor up to 180 days; aggravated forms can reach Felony up to 10 yrs (assault with significant bodily injury) / life (assault with intent to kill).
Criminal Appeals in District of Columbia
District of Columbia criminal defendants have a right to appeal — but appeals are limited to legal errors preserved at trial, run on tight deadlines (often 30 days), and reverse only ~10% of cases.
Cyber Crime Defense in District of Columbia
District of Columbia cyber-crime cases combine state computer-crime statutes with federal CFAA and other digital-crime laws. Federal prosecution is common for major cases.
Domestic Violence Charges in District of Columbia
District of Columbia domestic violence charges combine an underlying assault/battery offense with state-specific DV enhancements. No mandatory arrest on probable cause.
Drug Court Eligibility in District of Columbia
District of Columbia drug courts offer eligible defendants treatment-based alternatives to incarceration. Successful completion can result in dismissed charges or reduced sentences.
Drug Crime Penalties in District of Columbia
District of Columbia drug law: cannabis is legal for adult recreational use.
Expungement and Record Sealing in District of Columbia
District of Columbia's record-clearing process is called sealing. Reasonable but selective — many offenses are eligible, but certain categories (violent, sex, DUI in some states) are usually excluded.
Federal Criminal Charges in District of Columbia
District of Columbia federal criminal charges differ from state — federal sentencing guidelines, mandatory minimums, no parole, and 90%+ conviction rates. Specialized federal-experienced counsel essential.
Felonies vs Misdemeanors in District of Columbia
District of Columbia divides offenses into felonies (more serious) and misdemeanors (less serious). DC has no formal lettered classification but uses sentencing guidelines analogous to federal practice.
Gun Laws in District of Columbia
District of Columbia concealed carry: Shall-issue (post-Wrenn 2017). Open carry: Banned (concealed carry only with license). Red flag (ERPO) law: Yes — Extreme Risk Protective Order.
Hate Crime Laws in District of Columbia
District of Columbia hate crime laws enhance penalties for offenses motivated by bias against protected categories: Race, color, religion, and others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a juvenile record be sealed?

Many states allow juvenile records to be sealed or expunged. A lawyer can explain the rules where you live.

Should parents talk to police for their child?

Get a lawyer before your child answers questions — statements can be used in court.

Should I talk to the police before I have a lawyer?

You have the right to stay silent and to ask for a lawyer. Politely say you want to speak with an attorney before answering questions.

How soon should I hire a criminal defense lawyer in DC?

As soon as you're charged or know you're being investigated. Early help can affect bail, evidence and whether charges are filed at all.

Can a criminal charge be dismissed?

Sometimes — for weak evidence, an illegal stop or search, or through programs like pretrial diversion. A local defense lawyer can tell you what's realistic for your case.

How many juvenile defense lawyers are listed in DC?

There are currently 3 juvenile defense lawyers listed in DC on CGMIMM.