Juvenile Crimes

Juvenile Crime Lawyer in Fort Collins, CO

Serving Parents in Larimer & Weld Counties

When a young person is accused of a crime, the entire family can experience the weight of uncertainty and fear. As a parent, you may struggle to understand how the situation happened, what will happen next, and how to protect your child’s future. A single juvenile mistake, misunderstanding, or lapse in judgment can have serious and lasting consequences, impacting educational opportunities, employment, and reputation.

At The Law Offices of Thomas W. Martin, LLC, we know that juvenile cases require both legal skill and compassion. We represent minors and their families throughout Northern Colorado, working to protect their rights and minimize the long-term effects of criminal allegations.

Attorney Tom Martin has over 20 years of experience guiding families through the complex Juvenile Justice System. Our focus is always on rehabilitation, sealing the record, and preventing the consequences of a youthful mistake from derailing your child's future.

Request a free case analysis with our Fort Collins juvenile crime attorney. Contact us at (970) 444-9448 or reach out online to schedule an office or virtual consultation at your convenience.

Our Firm’s Role in Juvenile Defense

The Law Offices of Thomas W. Martin, LLC specializes in the strategic defense of juvenile clients, prioritizing outcomes that promote the child's future and prevent long-term harm.

Challenging police conduct: Juvenile cases often involve complex issues surrounding police interaction. We challenge the validity of the stop, the search, and whether the child's Miranda Rights (and the parental/guardian notification requirement) were followed correctly during questioning.
Fighting “direct file” cases: In serious felony cases where the District Attorney files in adult court, we aggressively argue for a Reverse Transfer back to Juvenile Court, where rehabilitative sentencing options are available.
Negotiating alternatives to adjudication: We work with prosecutors and probation to negotiate diversion programs, deferred adjudications, and other non-conviction outcomes that allow the case to be dismissed and quickly made eligible for record sealing.
Advocating for rehabilitation: Should an adjudication occur, we advocate for community-based sentencing options, such as intensive probation, community service, and counseling, instead of commitment to the Division of Youth Services (DYS).

We recognize that these cases involve much more than just legal strategy. They are about protecting a young person’s dignity, future, and family relationships.

Call us at (970) 444-9448 or reach our firm online for a free initial consultation with our Fort Collins juvenile crimes attorney today.

Understanding the Colorado Juvenile Justice System

The legal framework governing juvenile crimes is established in Title 19 of the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.), also known as the Colorado Children's Code. Unlike the adult system, the law's stated goal is the child's welfare and rehabilitation.

Key Terms for Parents

Child delinquent act: A violation of any law that would be a crime if committed by an adult (for example, theft, assault).
Juvenile Court: The court with exclusive jurisdiction over the child. The focus is on accountability, education, and rehabilitation, not strict punishment.
Adjudication: The juvenile equivalent of a conviction. A finding by the court that the child committed the delinquent act.
Commitment: The most severe juvenile sentence, resulting in the child being placed in the custody of the Department of Human Services (DHS) (Division of Youth Services facility).
Direct file: The process where the District Attorney bypasses Juvenile Court and files serious felony charges against a juvenile (age 16+) directly in District Court (adult court).

When a juvenile is accused of an offense, the case typically begins with a referral from law enforcement to the juvenile court. Depending on the nature of the charge and the youth’s prior record, the matter may be resolved through diversion programs, probation, or more formal proceedings before a judge. In serious cases, such as violent felonies or repeat offenses, a juvenile may be charged as an adult.

Our firm helps families understand every step of this process, from the initial detention hearing to plea negotiations, adjudication, and potential sentencing alternatives.

Common Juvenile Offenses in Colorado

Our firm handles a wide range of juvenile cases, including:

Shoplifting and theft
Drug or alcohol possession
Vandalism and property damage
Assault and fighting at school
Traffic violations or reckless driving
Trespassing
Burglary
Cybercrimes and harassment

Many of these cases stem from impulsive behavior or peer pressure, rather than criminal intent. We work to keep one poor decision from permanently limiting a young person’s opportunities.

Why Experience Matters

The Law Offices of Thomas W. Martin, LLC brings extensive experience defending juveniles and adults across Northern Colorado. We understand how prosecutors handle these cases and what options exist for early intervention. Our firm’s approach is both strategic and human, focusing on second chances and fair treatment under the law.

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"Ethical, knowledgeable, hard working, truthful, and responsive."
Tom took my case on, and right away I knew how enthusiastic he is about the law. I was very optimistic based on our very long discussions about my situation. He is also very personable and really cares about creating a positive outcome. Because of his research and knowledge of the law, I received the best outcome that I could have possibly ever dreamed of. He hit it out of the ballpark for me, and I appreciate everything that he did for me. Thanks, Tom! You have created a very high bar for others to live up to in your industry. Ethical, knowledgeable, hard working, truthful, responsive, and really, just a great guy!

- Kim O.
"He is truthful and knows the law inside out!"
Tom calmly walked us through a legal nightmare!! He's worth far more than he actually charges! Don't be put off if he's blunt. He is truthful and knows the law inside out! THANK YOU TOM! If you need good representation and honesty, look no further! I can't imagine going through this junk without him!

- N.F.
"He made my legal experience smooth and stress-free."
I recently worked with Tom, and he is an exceptional lawyer who made my legal experience smooth and stress-free. From our first meeting, he showed a deep understanding of the law and was dedicated to achieving the best outcome for my case. What stood out to me most was his friendly and empathetic approach, which helped during this stressful time. He was always almost available, quickly returning calls and emails, and patiently answering all my questions. His calm and composed demeanor provided a great sense of reassurance that my case would work out. In the end, he got my case dismissed and sealed, and I could not be more grateful. Thanks again, Tom!

- Josh P.
"I can't say enough wonderful things about him."
He saved me. I can't say enough wonderful things about him. I wish I could give Tom 10 stars. Every penny spent was absolute gold. I recommend him one thousand percent.

- Julieanna D.
"Incredibly kind and knowledgeable."
Tom was incredibly kind and knowledgeable. He took a good half-hour phone call to educate me. I highly recommend him.

- Dillon M.
"I would highly recommend him to any of my friends."
Tom was highly recommended by a coworker, so I contacted him about my case. He responded quickly, and we met to go over the details. He said he thought my case had a good chance of being dismissed, and that’s exactly what happened, thanks to his professionalism and experience. I would highly recommend him to any of my friends. Thank you for your help, Tom!

- Jason C.
"He was very helpful"
Tom was recommended by a friend of mine, who spoke very highly of him. I gave him a call. He responded quickly to my message. Gave me advice on how I needed to proceed! He did not try to gouge me for a huge retainer; he just gave me the info I needed. I had to call him back a few more times because I needed additional info. He was very helpful and fun to talk to, also! I will be going to him in the future if the need arises.
Give him a call. I am glad I did !!

- Doug P.
"His knowledge and experience paid off."
A close friend recommended Tom for assistance with a DUI. His knowledge and experience paid off with a reduced sentence and limited consequences. He worked hard for the results, and his knowledge of how the system works paid off immensely.

- Kelsey P.

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What Sets Us Apart?

See Why Clients Are Choosing The Law Offices of Thomas W. Martin, LLC

More than 20 Years of Experience
Affordable & Transparent Fees
Prepared for Trial if Necessary
Focused on Criminal Defense
Personalized, Client-Focused Representation
Accessible & Responsive to Our Clients
Affordable & Transparent Fees
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