Juvenile Crimes & Delinquency

Juvenile Crimes & Delinquency in Georgia | Juvenile Defense Attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

Protecting the Future of Minors Accused of Crimes

When a minor is accused of a crime in Georgia, the legal process looks very different than it does for adults—but the consequences can still be severe. The goal of Georgia’s juvenile justice system is rehabilitation, not punishment, but minors and their families must act quickly to protect their rights and prevent long-term damage.

At Khalil Eaddy Trial Attorney, we provide experienced legal representation to minors and their families in Atlanta, Georgia. Whether your child is facing school-related charges, drug offenses, theft, or violent felonies, we fight to keep the case in juvenile court, protect their rights, and safeguard their future.

Juvenile vs. Adult Criminal Charges in Georgia

How Georgia Law Treats Minors

In Georgia, a person is typically considered a juvenile if they are under the age of 17 at the time the offense occurs. However, there are important exceptions.

Juvenile Charges	Adult Charges (for Minors)
Processed in Juvenile Court	Processed in Superior Court
Focus on rehabilitation	Focus on punishment
No public criminal record	Public, permanent criminal record
Detention in juvenile facilities	Detention in adult jails or prisons
Less formal procedures	Full criminal trial process

Georgia law allows some minors as young as 13 to be tried as adults in serious felony cases, including murder, rape, armed robbery, and aggravated assault.

The Juvenile Court Process in Georgia

Arrest or Complaint

A juvenile may be arrested or referred by a school, parent, or victim.
The child may be released to a parent or held in a Regional Youth Detention Center (RYDC).

Intake and Preliminary Assessment

A juvenile court officer evaluates the case to determine whether it qualifies for informal resolution or formal court action.

Detention Hearing (within 5 days of arrest)

The court determines whether to release the child or hold them in detention until trial.

Adjudicatory Hearing (Trial Equivalent)

The judge hears evidence and decides whether the child committed the alleged offense.
There is no jury—only a judge.

Disposition Hearing (Sentencing Equivalent)

If found responsible, the court decides on a rehabilitative sentence, which may include:
- Probation
- Community service
- Restitution
- Counseling or education programs
- Placement in a juvenile facility

We work to negotiate diversion or informal adjustment agreements that avoid formal adjudication and keep your child’s record clean.

When Can a Minor Be Tried as an Adult in Georgia?

Under O.C.G.A. § 15-11-560, certain serious offenses require or permit transfer to Superior Court, including:

Murder
Rape
Armed robbery with a firearm
Aggravated child molestation
Aggravated sodomy
Aggravated sexual battery

Minors 13 years or older can be automatically prosecuted as adults for these charges. However, a skilled defense attorney may argue for the case to remain in juvenile court by showing:

The minor’s mental maturity
Lack of prior delinquency
Amenability to rehabilitation
Circumstances of the offense

Once a minor is convicted in adult court, they face adult penalties and a permanent criminal record.

Rights of Juveniles in Criminal Cases

Juveniles accused of crimes still have constitutional rights, including:

The right to remain silent
The right to an attorney
The right to notice of charges
The right to confront witnesses
Protection from self-incrimination
Protection against double jeopardy

But juvenile court is different from adult court in one key way: there is no jury. The judge alone determines guilt or innocence.

We ensure that your child’s rights are not violated, that they understand the process, and that they are treated fairly and respectfully in court.

Sealing and Expunging Juvenile Records in Georgia

Unlike adult convictions, many juvenile records can be sealed or expunged—but the process is not automatic.

Sealing a Juvenile Record (O.C.G.A. § 15-11-701):

The court may seal records when:
- The case was dismissed or withdrawn
- The child completed supervision successfully
- The child is now an adult and meets rehabilitation criteria

Benefits of Sealing or Expungement:

Allows your child to apply to college, military service, and jobs without disclosing a juvenile record
Prevents the record from appearing on background checks
Protects privacy and reputation

We help families petition for sealing or expunging juvenile records so that a mistake doesn’t follow your child for life.

Your Child Deserves a Second Chance. We’re Here to Fight for It.

At Khalil Eaddy Trial Attorney, we know how stressful it is for families when a child is arrested or accused of wrongdoing. We approach each case with compassion and strength, working to protect your child’s rights and future in every court they face.

Confidential Juvenile Defense Consultation Available

Let us help your family move forward, not backward. We’re ready to fight for your child—in and out of the courtroom.

Call 770-303-0700 today for a confidential consultation and start building your defense.

Juvenile Crimes & Delinquency

Your Child Deserves a Second Chance. We’re Here to Fight for It.

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