Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Everett
Nearly 20 Years of Criminal Defense, Applied to Every Case We Take
When a child faces criminal charges, the decisions made in the first days matter. Snohomish Law PLLC is led by a trial attorney with nearly 20 years of experience and advanced training in forensic science, DUI testing, and complex evidence analysis. That combination is rarely found in juvenile defense, and it changes what we can do for your family.
Juvenile cases often hinge on evidence that goes unquestioned: a field sobriety test, a roadside drug screen, a search that may not have followed the rules. Our background in chemistry, forensic analysis, and private investigation lets us examine that evidence closely rather than accept it at face value. We’re willing to take cases to court when that’s what a strong defense requires.
Your child’s record deserves the same fight we bring to every case. Call Snohomish Law PLLC at (425) 321-3487 for a free consultation, available 24/7.
Common Juvenile Charges in Washington State
Washington’s juvenile court handles a wide range of offenses. Knowing where your child’s situation fits helps you understand what’s at stake and what options exist.
Charges we see most often include:
- Minor in Possession (MIP): Covers alcohol possession for anyone under 21, or drug possession for anyone under 18. When the alleged offense occurred before the minor’s 18th birthday, the case proceeds through juvenile court rather than adult court.
- Theft: Shoplifting and other theft charges are among the most common juvenile referrals.
- Assault: Charges can stem from school incidents or other confrontations and range in severity.
- Drug Offenses: Possession and related charges are frequently prosecuted in juvenile court.
- Weapons offenses and vandalism: Both carry consequences that extend well beyond a first impression.
How Washington’s Juvenile Justice System Works
Juvenile offender cases in Washington are governed by RCW Title 13, specifically the Juvenile Justice Act of 1977 (RCW 13.40). After a referral or arrest, prosecutors decide whether to file formal charges or offer an alternative path. That decision shapes everything that follows.
Diversion Agreements & Youth Court
One important alternative is a diversion agreement. Rather than going through formal adjudication, a juvenile may complete structured requirements such as up to 150 hours of community restitution (not scheduled during school hours for enrolled students), restitution capped at the victim’s actual loss, and up to 10 hours of counseling (extendable to 30 hours if an assessment identifies a mental health or chemical dependency need) plus up to 20 hours of educational or informational sessions. Diversion isn’t available for offenses committed on or after a juvenile’s 18th birthday.
Youth court programs offer another path, letting participants take on roles such as juror, attorney, or judge under adult supervision in place of formal court proceedings. In serious cases, Washington law does allow a juvenile matter to be considered for transfer to adult court, where adult sentencing guidelines would apply.
Juvenile Court at the Denney Juvenile Justice Center
Snohomish County’s juvenile cases are heard at the Denney Juvenile Justice Center in Everett. The center houses the juvenile division of Snohomish County Superior Court, along with detention services, probation services, and courtrooms for criminal, dependency, and nonoffender matters. Two Superior Court judges are assigned to Denney on a rotating basis. Knowing this court’s procedures and environment is part of how we prepare every case we take on here.
-
“He is very knowledgeable in the DUI field and was able to guide me throughout the process. My case did go to trial as the public prosecutor was not giving any good negotiation. Scott analyzed the case and told me to take it to trial.”- Former Client
-
“We appreciate his rapid responses to our questions, and the peace of mind knowing we had his experience on our side.”- Elizabeth
-
“Not only did he win my trial, but his knowledge of the details and his negotiation skills were instrumental in achieving a successful outcome. He was able to navigate the complex legal system with ease and always had my best interests in mind.”- Former Client
-
“As an experienced attorney, Scott worked diligently to present the facts of the case and ended up winning the case at trial. We would recommend Scott Lawrence, Attorney at Law, to anyone facing criminal charges.”- Former Client
-
“I am incredibly grateful to Snohomish Law for their dedication and expertise in resolving my case. They were professional, compassionate, and kept me informed throughout the process.”- Justin K.
