Oakland Juvenile Crime Attorneys
California Juvenile Law Legal Counsel
Our younger years are a crucial time in our lives where we learn who we are and make choices that determine who we will become as adults. Unfortunately, this is also often a time when many of us make mistakes. While some of these mistakes are minor and teach us valuable lessons, others can result in criminal charges and carry serious consequences.
We are ready to defend parents and children who are being accused of any type of criminal charge, including:
- Theft
- Shoplifting
- Assault
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Drug possession/sale
- Weapon charges
- Underage drunk driving
At the Law Offices of Torres & Caraves, our Oakland criminal defense lawyers understand that young people's mistakes can impact the rest of their lives when handled in court. If your son or daughter has been charged with a crime, our team of powerful advocates are prepared to stand by your side and provide the aggressive representation you need to maximize your chances of securing a favorable outcome.
Why choose the Law Offices of Torres & Caraves? Consider the following:
- More than 20 years of trial-tested experience
- Track record of positive client testimonials
- Invaluable insight as a former prosecutor
- Fluent in English and Spanish
Discuss your child’s story today during a confidential case review.
What Happens If My Child Is Arrested in California?
When a minor is arrested in California, the police are given the discretion to either keep them in custody or release them back to their parents or guardians. Since most juvenile halls in the state are overcrowded, many police officers are more inclined to release them. This will largely depend upon the crime which they are accused, however, as violent offenders are far more likely to remain in custody.
If a child is placed into juvenile hall, the district attorney’s office or probation department will then consider whether or not to file a petition against your child, which is essentially the juvenile equivalent of criminal charges. In some cases, the district attorney may exercise his or her right to try your child as an adult.
If your child is convicted in juvenile court, they could face any of the following penalties:
- Probation
- Placement in foster care
- Placement in a group home
- Detainment
- Incarceration in a youth facility
Status vs. Delinquency Offenses
Juvenile courts are different from adult courts in that they are far more focused on rehabilitating a young offender rather than punishing their conduct. Regardless, detention in a correctional facility is still a very real possibility for certain categories of juvenile crimes.
Juvenile crimes are classified as follows:
- Status offenses: Crimes of this nature are minor and are in many cases only illegal due to the minor’s age, such as driving without a license, underage drinking, truancy, or unlawfully possessing a firearm.
- Delinquency offenses: These offenses are illegal regardless of age and can carry far more serious penalties.
Juvenile cases are different from adult trials in that they do not have a jury, with a minor’s guilt or innocence and sentencing being decided by a judge. In addition to penalties such as probation and possible detention, minors are frequently required to participate in educational programs related to their specific offense.
At the Law Offices of Torres & Caraves, our Oakland juvenile defense attorneys believe that no child’s future should be forever tainted due to a past mistake. Backed by years of experience and an intimate knowledge of the juvenile justice system, our team of advocates understand the struggles you and your child are facing and can craft a custom-tailored defense in pursuit of a reduction or even dismissal of your child’s charges – no matter how severe they may be. We know the most effective strategies and arguments necessary to help your child avoid criminal penalties, and we are committed to ensuring their rights are protected every step of the way during this frightening time.
Get in touch with our criminal defense lawyers online to get started toward building your defense.

Testimonials
Hear Directly from Our Clients-
“I was particularly impressed by his trial approach and strategy. He made sure that my son was set up for success. I am grateful to Martin because my son was found to be not guilty by the jury.”
- Paulette Smith -
“It definitely felt like he had my back and wanted me to win as much as I wanted to win. I highly recommend Mr. Caraves I felt like Mr. Caraves did everything he could to help us win the case. I could go on and on but I think you get the picture. Great win!”
- Langston W. -
“Martin me dijo el primer dia que tuve la entrevista con el........ no se preocupe por nada, yo voy a pelear su caso y olvidese del caso, si necesito algo lo llamo. Eso es lo que hice, y despues me ...”
- Gloria C. -
“Es una firma de abogados que necesita nuestra comunidad; en más de 5 casos han apoyado y tenido éxito con los casos si tienes un DUI, un accidente de cualquier género no duden en buscar en ellos su ...”
- Myriam R. -
“El mes Julio 31 19 me atendió este abogado muy bien y todo le entendi mi caso era que un investigador privado quería mi información y yo tenía mucho miedo y el me ayudó.”
- Fredi L.
