Juvenile law exists because the courts and society believe that young people should be treated differently than adults under the law. The juvenile justice system focuses on rehabilitation for youthful offenders so that mistakes made early in life don’t penalize them for the rest of their lives. I represent young people in the Wilmington, Newark, Middletown and Dover areas and throughout Delaware who are charged with criminal offenses, pressing for a sentence that protects your child’s future. I also advocate for vulnerable minors in situations where they are at risk of harm from an adult guardian. When you seek my help, you can be confident that a knowledgeable and assertive juvenile law attorney — who understands the Delaware juvenile system and the state’s courts — is on your side.
The primary concern for most parents is the safety of their children. When those children face criminal charges, it’s important to seek skilled legal counsel experienced in juvenile law and the juvenile court system. I draw on my extensive background to provide a strong defense for juveniles in cases that may involve:
Juvenile court judges have a range of options when handling the cases that come before them. While they must balance the needs of the youthful offender with those of the public’s safety, they are more likely to recommend probation and treatment programs rather than confinement to a juvenile facility, but their rulings depend upon the severity of the charge. My experience enables me to anticipate how local judges and juvenile courts will approach your child’s case so I can be fully prepared to represent their rights and seek the most favorable outcome under the circumstances.
If your child is being accused of, charged with or investigated in connection with a criminal offense, time is of the essence. Delay can cause valuable legal advantages to be lost while you are waiting to secure legal representation. I understand the severity of the situation and work tirelessly to ensure that your child’s mistakes don’t follow him or her into adulthood. My breadth of juvenile law experience gives me a thorough understanding of the approaches that courts and judges respond most favorably to. I am committed to pursuing sentencing options that prevent your son or daughter from having a criminal record so that just one youthful mistake doesn’t affect their ability to attend college or pursue a meaningful career in the future.
Andrew J. Witherell represents youth throughout Delaware in a full range of juvenile law matters. When your son or daughter needs help, I provide advice and advocacy to protect their rights and future. Call me at 302-655-1943 or contact me online to schedule a consultation.