Nearly every parent knows that a minor child who is basically a good kid can make a decision that isn't so smart. Teenagers are greatly influenced by their peers, and may participate in activities they normally would not engage in such as underage drinking, shoplifting, or even more serious offenses. When your child has been arrested or if facing criminal charges, it is critical to work with an experienced Sanford juvenile defense attorney. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, our top priority is obtaining good results and protecting juveniles from harsh punishment and a criminal record that could potentially impact educational and employment opportunities.
In the state of Florida, courts focus on rehabilitation when it comes to minors under the age of 18 rather than punishment. However, there are situations in which a juvenile may be charged in the adult Criminal Justice System rather than the Juvenile Justice System. If found guilty, a minor will face the same punishment an adult would face in the same situation. We know you have many questions, including whether your child will spend time in juvenile detention, what the future holds, how the charges will affect your child's future, and more. Juveniles who are given the opportunity to rehabilitate instead of being placed in a juvenile detention center are far less likely to become repeat offenders. Whatever your case may be, we can help.
With more than 30 years of combined experience, our firm represents juveniles charged with a wide array of crimes. Examples of our areas of focus include:
When a juvenile is alleged to have committed a crime, his/her legal rights must be protected. Minors have rights, including the right to capable legal counsel, the right not to incriminate themselves, and the right to remain silent. Those under the age of 18 should never answer questions or face interrogation by police without a parent present. Any parent who has a teenager knows children of this age do not understand how serious a situation really is, and the possible consequences of a conviction. We vigorously defend juveniles who are accused of drug crimes, DUI, theft, sexual assault, and even violent offenses.
Our defense attorneys thoroughly analyze the evidence, question potential mistakes made by police or law enforcement, ensure the child's rights were not violated, and investigate the accusations against our client. In cases where a minor child may be tried as an adult, our goal is to have the case handled in the Juvenile Justice System so that your child does not face harsh punishment such as jail/prison time. There are various programs, counseling, and other routes that work to put young people back on a positive path. Ultimately, we want to obtain the best possible result for your child and avoid punishment, a criminal record, and the chance that a teen's future opportunities could be damaged.
Contact Adams, Luka, & Benton NowBeing accused of committing a crime as a juvenile is just as serious as an adult being accused of a crime. It is important to seek legal guidance as soon as possible, so that your child's rights are protected and work can begin on the case immediately. We understand how traumatic criminal charges can be for the entire family. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, our Sanford juvenile defense attorneys are dedicated to exceptional results. We urge you to contact us now for a free consultation at (407) 872-0307.
I would like thank my attorney Thomas Luka. I knew from the beginning I had the right guy in my corner. While celebrating with family and friends at a Public Park in Seminole County, a fight broke out among various people. Myself, and a good friend, broke up the fight and the instigators left. Six months later, I was wrongly accused as the person who started the fight. The first attorney I hired could not even get a response from the State Attorney handling the case. Someone referred me to Tom and I felt comfortable at his demeanor and reactions.
After conversations with Tom, who knew I would settle for nothing less than a FULL DISMISSAL due to my innocence, I hired him. His firm Adams, Luka, & Benton did the due diligence by interviewing witnesses and the police who were on the scene, as well as starting a dialogue with the State Attorney. After gathering statements from witnesses, Tom was able to present a strong argument on my behalf to the State Attorney on why the case should be dismissed. If the State Attorney was not willing to dismiss the case, Tom was ready to take the case to trial.
The result by Thomas Luka: Case Dismissed.
I am 53 years old with a spotless record and glad to keep it that way thanks to the time, effort, hard work, and professionalism of Adams, Luka, & Benton.