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Juvenile Charges in Mobile County: Rights, Processes, and What to Expect

by | Nov 1, 2025 | Criminal Defense Attorney | 0 comments

Juvenile charges in Mobile County

Juvenile Charges in Mobile County: Rights, Processes, and What to Expect

When a minor faces criminal charges in Mobile or Mobile County, Alabama, the situation can feel frightening and confusing. Families often feel overwhelmed, and many parents are unsure about what happens next. Because the juvenile justice system works differently from the adult system, understanding each step is important. With the right guidance, you can protect your child’s future and reduce the long-term impact of the case.

What Counts as a Juvenile Charge in Alabama?

In Alabama, the juvenile court system usually handles cases involving anyone 17 or younger. However, the court may treat certain serious offenses differently. Many juvenile cases in Mobile County involve:

  • Underage drinking

  • Shoplifting

  • Vandalism

  • Drug possession

  • Simple assault or fighting

  • Bullying or school-related offenses

  • Traffic violations for minors

Even though these charges may seem minor, they can still harm a child’s record. Therefore, quick legal action is essential.

How the Juvenile Justice Process Works in Mobile County

Because the juvenile system focuses on rehabilitation, each step aims to guide the child rather than punish them. Still, the process can move quickly, so knowing what to expect helps you prepare.

1. The Initial Intake

After an arrest or referral, the case goes to the Mobile County Juvenile Court Intake Office. Here, an intake officer reviews the allegations and decides what should happen next. The officer may:

  • Dismiss the case

  • Handle it informally

  • Move forward with a formal delinquency petition

Since this decision shapes everything that follows, families benefit from having an attorney early in the process.

2. The Detention Hearing

If officers keep the juvenile in custody, the court must hold a detention hearing within 72 hours. During this hearing, a judge decides whether the child goes home or stays in detention. With strong legal support, many minors return home while the case continues.

3. Filing of the Petition

If the case becomes formal, the District Attorney files a delinquency petition. This petition works like a charge in adult court and tells the family what the juvenile is accused of. After that, the court schedules the next hearing.

4. The Adjudication Hearing

The adjudication hearing works like a trial, but it is simpler and more focused on rehabilitation. For example:

  • A judge, not a jury, decides the case

  • The court often encourages treatment, counseling, or education

  • Some records may be sealed later

During this hearing, your attorney can challenge the evidence, question witnesses, and negotiate alternatives that protect the juvenile.

5. Disposition

If the judge rules that the juvenile committed the offense, the court moves to disposition. This step is similar to sentencing in adult court. Possible outcomes include:

  • Probation

  • Community service

  • Counseling

  • Restitution

  • Detention for more serious cases

With skilled representation, many children receive probation or other alternatives instead of detention.

Juvenile Rights During the Legal Process

Juveniles still have important rights during every stage of the case. These rights can significantly affect the outcome, so parents must understand them clearly.

Right to an Attorney

Every juvenile has the right to an attorney. Although the court may appoint one, hiring a lawyer early often leads to better results because the attorney can guide the family from the very beginning.

Right to Remain Silent

A juvenile does not have to answer police questions without an attorney or a parent present. Because statements can easily be misunderstood or used incorrectly, staying silent is often the safest choice.

Right to Notice of Charges

The juvenile and their family must receive written notice explaining the allegations.

Right to a Fair and Speedy Hearing

Juvenile courts aim to resolve cases quickly. This helps protect the minor’s rights and reduces disruptions to school and daily life.

Could My Child Be Tried as an Adult in Mobile County?

Although most cases stay in juvenile court, Alabama allows prosecutors to request a transfer to adult court for serious offenses. These usually include:

  • Violent crimes

  • Gun-related offenses

  • Drug trafficking

The judge considers the child’s age, background, mental maturity, and the seriousness of the allegations. A strong defense often prevents this transfer and keeps the case in juvenile court.

How a Juvenile Charge Can Affect a Child’s Future

A juvenile charge can impact:

  • College admissions

  • Scholarship opportunities

  • Military eligibility

  • Employment

  • Driver’s license eligibility

  • Future interactions with law enforcement

However, many juvenile records can be sealed or expunged later. To learn more about clearing a record, visit our Expungement page.

Why You Need an Experienced Juvenile Defense Attorney

Juvenile cases move fast, and early decisions can shape the outcome. At Mobile County Defense, we work to:

  • Protect your child’s rights

  • Prevent harmful statements

  • Seek informal resolutions whenever possible

  • Fight for case dismissal

  • Keep the case in juvenile court

  • Protect your child’s future opportunities

We proudly serve families throughout Mobile County, including Mobile, Saraland, Semmes, Prichard, Chickasaw, Dauphin Island, and nearby communities.

If your child faces juvenile charges, contact us today for a free consultation.