Most Common Juvenile Crimes that Occur During the Halloween Season

Halloween is a time for candy, costumes, parties, and for some, crime. Many teens may be met with criminal charges this Halloween. For some reason, the Halloween holiday encourages people to feel more mischievous, which may lead to a criminal record. Here are some of the most common juvenile crimes that occur on Halloween:

Theft

Teens may feel more rebellious on Halloween and one way to show this is with theft. They may steal candy from the local store, or they may even steal larger items, like vehicles. Theft in New Jersey can lead to potential fines and jail time, with charges dependent on the value of the items the teen has stolen.

Vandalism

Vandalism has long been associated with Halloween, especially the few nights leading up to the holiday. Teens may be charged for toilet papering neighbor’s houses or spray painting public properties. Vandalism in New Jersey can lead to required attendance in a juvenile detention center. Teens may also be responsible for paying restitution.

Assault

Many teen Halloween parties involve alcohol or drugs, which can, in some cases, also lead to assault charges. A juvenile assault charge in New Jersey is a disorderly persons offense. This can lead to up to six months in jail and legal fines up to $1,000. More severe assault charges, especially those involving weapons, may lead to even more severe consequences.

Possession of Alcohol

A lot of Halloween parties may involve drinking alcohol. If a teen is caught in possession of alcohol, they may receive a disorderly persons offense. This may lead to legal fines with a minimum of $500. In some cases, jail time may also be a requirement.

Potential Consequences of Teen Crimes in New Jersey

While New Jersey courts may be a little more lenient when it comes to juveniles, this doesn’t mean that they’re exempt from legal consequences. Many of the most common crimes on Halloween can leave a teen with a permanent criminal record and may lead to expensive fines, a suspended driver’s license, jail time, and a criminal record. Courts consider many factors when determining the appropriate consequences following a legal charge. For one, they will consider the details of the event. For example, if weapons were present or someone was injured, the teen may expect more severe charges.

The court will also consider if the teen has any priors. Those with a previous criminal record may be charged more harshly. Finally, the judge will consider the charges present. Some crimes are a misdemeanor or disorderly persons offense, and often carry lessened consequences than when compared to other types of legal charges, like a felony charge.

What to Expect Following Juvenile Charges

The court system is different for juveniles than adults in New Jersey. This means that you need a criminal defense lawyer who has experience in defending juveniles. You need a lawyer who will fight for your teen’s rights and build them a good defense. Criminal charges can affect their future opportunities, including the ability to go to college or apply for student loans.

Contact an Experienced Camden County Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Juvenile Charges in New Jersey

Was your child arrested or charged with a juvenile crime in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving them with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending them to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at Gelman Law have successfully represented clients charged with juvenile charges in Camden County, Cherry Hill, Burlington County, Gloucester County, and throughout New Jersey. Call 856-861-4236 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 850 Rt 70 West
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.