Unparalleled Criminal Defense Experience
- Focused exclusively on criminal defense
- Handled over 8,500 criminal defense cases
- Represented clients in more than 250 jury trials
- Represented clients in more than 1,000 non-jury trials and suppression hearings
Pennsylvania Juvenile Crime Defense Attorney
If it is not properly handled, a drug arrest or other youthful crime can have a lasting impact on a person's life. A juvenile can end up with a permanent record which could adversely affect career and educational prospects. The good news is that in many cases, it is possible to keep a juvenile's record clean and avoid many of the long-term consequences of a conviction.
I am John J. Kerrigan, Jr., an attorney who defends juveniles accused of crimes in Bucks County, Montgomery County and Philadelphia County. I have over 35 years of experience, and have handled over 8500 cases, including 250 jury trials and 1000 non-jury trials. I have extensive experience in obtaining positive outcomes for juveniles in cases involving:
- Drug offenses
- Shoplifting and theft
- DUI
- Alcohol-related offenses
- Vandalism
- Assault
- And other juvenile offenses
Call 215-741-7144 or send me an e-mail to schedule a free consultation in my Langhorne law office.
Rehabilitation, Not Punishment
Whenever the circumstances warrant it, the State of Pennsylvania favors rehabilitation in juvenile cases rather than punishment, particularly for first offenses. This means that it is often possible to obtain a consent decree or an informal decree, which essentially drops the charge provided that the juvenile stays out of trouble. The juvenile's record is automatically cleared, and he or she can move forward as if the event did not happen.
Over a career spanning more than thirty years, I have helped many juveniles obtain these types of outcomes. In your child's case, I will work vigorously to obtain the best outcome — avoiding a permanent record for your child if at all possible.
Repeat Offenses and Prosecution as an Adult
Other cases, such as those involving a repeat offense can require a different approach. A very serious criminal charge can result in the juvenile being prosecuted as an adult. My firm has represented many juveniles in these situations. I will work with determination to defend your child's rights and preserve his or her freedom.
Free Consultation with a Lawyer
Contact me to schedule a free consultation. I will do everything I can to help your child.
