Bradley Dede LLC: Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorney in Gray Summit, MO
If you have been charged with a criminal offense, time is of the essence. Turn to a trusted criminal defense lawyer in Gray Summit, MO, to begin building a solid defense.

Criminal Charges Against
When a Missouri minor’s liberty and freedom are at stake, accessing the counsel of a criminal lawyer is essential. but it is important to note that juvenile courts in Gray Summit, Mo, are based solely on rehabilitating instead of punishing minors charged with criminal offenses.

The Role of Juvenile Criminal Lawyers in Gray Summit, Mo
Minors’ criminal histories can negatively affect their employment, immigration status, voting rights, housing, and education prospects, as well as their financial independence. That’s why hiring a juvenile defender is essential.
In criminal law, a juvenile criminal lawyer provides defense to juveniles or minors. A juvenile criminal defense lawyer has the following roles:
- A lawyer should advocate and express the minor’s best interests by presenting the legal case with specific juvenile justice aspects.
- The defense lawyer should track the institutional treatment and aftercare of the minor
- The criminal lawyer should engage the client when establishing a release action plan.
- A defense lawyer should interact with people like guardians, probation officers, teachers, and mentors who should aid in the release of the minor.

Stages in the Juvenile Criminal Justice System
Most juvenile cases are invoked to the juvenile justice system through police, parents, probation officers, or teachers. The juvenile justice system involves the following stages:
Step 1 – Intake: A probation officer determines whether to hold a minor in custody or dismiss them based on the evidence presented by the police, parents, or educator.
Step 2 – Referral: Depending on the evidence, the authorities determine if the minor can be released to a parent or needs to be held in a secure detention center.
Step 3 – Diversion: Where the minor’s case is dealt with out of court, it can be handled by a disciplinarian or school principal. It helps reduce the negative effect of justice system participation and erase a criminal record that can damage the minor’s future.
Step 5 – Detention: The court decides whether to detain the minor until their adjudication hearing or release them during pre-adjudication. The judge can order a pretrial if the child is considered dangerous to the community.
Step 6 – Adjudication: This is where the minor is found guilty or innocent. If guilty, the minor is placed in informal probation supervision.
Step 7 – Deposition: Once the minor is adjudicated delinquent, he is sent to a depositional hearing in an adult court.
Step 8 – Sentencing or juvenile correction: – After sentencing, the minor is either placed in residential placement or on probation.
Step 9 – Aftercare: When a minor is placed on probation, they are administered and assisted during the transformation and reintegration into society.

Why Should I Hire a Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorney?
Missouri Criminal Lawyers in Gray Summit, Mo, can make all the difference in shaping your child’s future. It is crucial to ensure your child has the proper representation before any official documents are filed. Hiring a Missouri juvenile criminal defense lawyer is important for the following reasons:
- With their legal knowledge and experience, a lawyer will fight to have the case dismissed the case or for a reduced sentence.
- A lawyer will guide you in building a defense for your child and prepare for the potential outcomes.
- A juvenile defense attorney in gray summit, Mo, will fight on behalf of your child to speed up the judicial process so your teen is not held for more than the necessary time.
- Criminal defense attorneys are familiar with the criminal justice system and will fight for your rights and protect your interests.
- A defense lawyer can assist with various matters, including felony charges, traffic tickets, misdemeanor charges, personal injury, and other legal matters.
When it comes to juvenile criminal offenders, Brandley S. Dede of Bradeley Dede LLC understands that there is more at stake if the minor isn’t counseled and rehabilitated throughout their life. Contact us for a free consultation.

What Are the Qualities of a Good Juvenile Criminal Defense lawyer?
When selecting a criminal law juvenile attorney, there are some essential qualities to consider, including:
- The lawyer should be experienced in juvenile criminal defense.
- The lawyer should not be involved in any negative publicity or misconduct and should not be sanctioned by the state bar association.
- The attorney should possess the knowledge and know how to protect the client’s record and fight to keep them out of prison.
- An attorney should have a firm reputation through previous experience.

Get in Touch With Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorneys in Gray Summit, MO
If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges or if you have been arrested, contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Bradley S. Dede LLC is a qualified lawyer who spent 30 years defending and protecting the rights of people. He is familiar with the processes of the local juvenile court system.
With his main practice in Clayton & St. Louis County, he also has a satellite office in Franklin County. Bradley S. Dede can also handle criminal cases, including DUI/DWI, child abuse, paraphernalia, traffic ticket, domestic violence, child support, drug crime, and assault. Cann us today to arrange your free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Youngest Age to Go to Juvenile Court in Missouri?
A juvenile should at least be twelve years old to be charged with a felony and prosecuted as an adult. The proceeding can be requested by the child’s family or a decision can be made by the court.
Can Minors Go to Jail in Missouri?
A minor can only be detained in a detention facility as stated by the court and may not be incarcerated in any jail or adult correctional institution.
What Is an Informal Adjustment?
An informal adjustment is a forum in which the juvenile is warned upon further violations. Instead of taking the child to court, informal adjustments are used for minor offenses.
How Long Can a Juvenile Be Kept in A Detention Center in Missouri?
A Juvenile Officer has the power to authorize the detention of a juvenile for less than twenty-four hours. The court only authorizes continued detention for more than twenty-four hours.
Let’s Work Together
With Bradley S. Dede we treat you as an individual and will help to fight your charges to
get a favorable outcome no matter what your case involves.