Juvenile Defense Lawyer Addison

A Compassionate Juvenile Defense Lawyer Serving Addison, Chicago, and Beyond

At the Law Office of Michael Stefanos, our Addison juvenile defense attorney is a compassionate, experienced, and solutions-focused advocate for teenagers and their families. A youthful indiscretion should not undermine a person’s future. If your child or juvenile loved one was arrested and charged with any type of crime, we are here to help. Contact us today at our Addison office for a confidential consultation with a top-rated Illinois juvenile justice attorney. 

Juveniles Can Run into Many Criminal Issues

Navigating the teenage years is difficult. For some young people, it can lead to serious legal trouble. As a parent, it is crucial that you are able to best protect your child’s rights and their future—even if they make a mistake. The Law Office of Michael Stefanos is a boutique law firm that handles the full range of juvenile criminal issues in DuPage County, Cook County, and throughout Northern Illinois. We are compassionate and driven by results. Along with other cases, our Addison juvenile justice attorney has experience with: 

• Underage Drinking: Possession or consumption of alcohol by a minor is a criminal offense in Illinois. Even a first offense can lead to fines, participation in a mandatory education program, and even a criminal record.
• Theft, including Shoplifting: A juvenile may be charged with stealing from stores or another person. It could have happened because of a dare or out of peer pressure. Even low-value theft can carry serious consequences. 
• Vandalism: Graffiti, property damage, and other forms of vandalism are common juvenile offenses. These acts may seem minor but can result in serious penalties in Illinois. 
• Drug Possession: Teens may be caught with marijuana, vaping devices, or even prescription pills without authorization. Drug offenses are serious in Illinois: 
• Fighting (Assault and Battery): Physical altercations between minors can lead to assault charges, especially if someone is injured. These charges can escalate based on the severity of harm or whether weapons were involved

An Overview of the Juvenile Justice Process in Illinois

The juvenile justice process in Illinois is governed primarily by the Illinois Juvenile Court Act of 1987 (705 ILCS 405). The law is designed to balance rehabilitation with accountability for minors accused of committing delinquent acts. As a general rule, the juvenile system applies to those under the age of 18 at the time of the alleged offense. With that being said, some minors in Illinois may be transferred to adult court under specific statutory criteria.

The process typically begins with a police interaction, followed by either a formal arrest or station adjustment. If formally arrested, the minor may be detained at a juvenile detention center pending further proceedings. However, it is not uncommon for juveniles in Illinois to be released directly into the custody of their parents/guardians—especially for less serious offenses. Following detention, the State’s Attorney may file a delinquency petition. That filing is functionally similar  to criminal charges in adult court. 

Key Point: The juvenile justice process in Illinois put a strong emphasis on rehabilitation instead of punishment. Juveniles have many more options for rehabilitation. 

Michael Stefanos is a Top Illinois Juvenile Defense Lawyer

As a parent, there are few things more stressful than learning that your child has been arrested and is facing criminal liability. It is imperative that you know how to protect their rights and their future. Michael Stefanos is a criminal defense attorney who juveniles and their families can trust. You can hear what our clients have to say to learn more about us. When you contact us at our Addison law office, you will have an opportunity to consult with an Illinois criminal defense lawyer who can: 

• Listen to what you have to say and answer questions about the juvenile justice system;
• Gather and prepare all supporting documents, records, and evidence; and
• Develop a juvenile defense strategy to best protect your child.  

We are Proud to Help Young People Protect their Future in Addison

Just 20 miles west of Chicago, Addison sits in DuPage County near major suburban hubs. It’s positioned between Naperville and Schaumburg and lies within easy reach of Elgin and Aurora. With its location near I-290 and Route 53, Addison offers excellent connectivity for regional travel and daily commuting.

Contact Our Addison, IL Juvenile Defense Attorney Today

At the Law Office of Michael Stefanos, our Addison juvenile justice attorney is a skilled, experienced, and future-focused advocate for clients. Was your teenager arrested and charged with any type of criminal act? We can help. Contact us right away for a fully confidential, no obligation case review. With an office in Addison, we defend juvenile charges in Chicago, Naperville, Aurora, Elgin, Schaumburg, and throughout the region.