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A teenage girl in handcuffs on a gray background. Juvenile delinquent, criminal liability of minors. Members of youth criminal groups and gangs.

Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dumas Texas

Juvenile Crime Attorney Serving Potter, Randall & Oldham Counties

Facing criminal charges is daunting for anyone, but the stakes are even higher when a juvenile is accused of a crime. Texas takes juvenile crimes seriously, and a conviction can impact a young person’s future, education, employment opportunities, and reputation for years to come.

If your child has been arrested or ticketed in the City of Dumas or any community in Randall County, Potter County, or Oldham County, the time to act is now. Many jurisdictions require youth and their parents or guardians to attend initial hearings and preparing a defense strategy takes time.

At Tisdell Law Firm, our award-winning team helps youth and their families navigate the juvenile criminal court system. Call (806) 352-4844 or contact us online for a FREE and confidential consultation.

Understanding Texas Juvenile Law

Texas considers individuals under the age of 17 as juveniles for most offenses, meaning their cases are typically handled in the juvenile justice system rather than adult criminal court. However, certain serious offenses can lead to a juvenile being tried as an adult.

Common juvenile offenses include:

Generally, the juvenile justice system focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment, but that doesn’t mean the consequences aren’t severe.

  • Underage Drinking & DWI
  • Drug Possession & Distribution
  • Marijuana Crimes
  • Theft & Shoplifting
  • Assault & Battery
  • Vandalism & Property Crimes
  • Sex Crimes
  • Weapons Charges
  • Internet Crimes

Potential Consequences of a Juvenile Conviction

Generally, the juvenile justice system focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment, but that doesn’t mean the consequences aren’t severe. A conviction can lead to serious consequences such as:

  • Probation – Court-supervised release with strict conditions.
  • Diversion Programs – Court-ordered participation in educational or rehabilitative programs.
  • Juvenile Detention – Incarceration in a juvenile facility for serious offenses.
  • Restitution & Community Service – Financial penalties or required volunteer work.
  • Impact on Future Opportunities – A criminal record can affect college admissions, job applications, and even eligibility for certain financial aid programs.

Diversion Programs & Alternative Sentencing

Juvenile courts and probation departments typically offer diversion programs aimed at rehabilitating juveniles. These programs focus on intervention, education, and behavioral improvement to prevent reoffending. In Amarillo and Randall County, for example, some key programs include:

  • Diversion Programs – Designed for first-time offenders, diversion programs help juveniles avoid formal prosecution by allowing them to complete specific rehabilitative requirements, such as counseling or community service.
  • The Parent Project Program – Aimed at helping parents address and correct delinquent behavior in juveniles through structured parenting techniques and family intervention.
  • Family Intervention Program – Focuses on providing support and intervention for at-risk youth and their families, emphasizing communication and conflict resolution to prevent future legal issues.
  • Amarillo Youth Diversion Plan – For cases handled in Amarillo Municipal Court, the Youth Diversion Plan allowed youth to complete programs that may include community service, education, counseling, letters of apology, and/or restitution. If all requirements are satisfied, there are no further proceedings related to the case.

Our firm can advocate for your child’s eligibility for these programs, ensuring they receive an opportunity for rehabilitation rather than facing harsh penalties. We also provide representation in hearings related to diversion program withdrawals or incompletion.

Can a Juvenile Be Tried as an Adult in Texas?

In some cases, Texas law allows juveniles as young as 14 to be certified as adults and prosecuted in adult criminal court. This typically applies to violent crimes, serious drug offenses, and repeat offenders. If your child is at risk of being tried as an adult, it is critical to have an aggressive legal advocate who can fight to keep the case in the juvenile system.

Defending Against Juvenile Charges

Our firm understands that one mistake shouldn’t define a young person’s entire future. We approach juvenile cases with the goal of securing dismissals, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing. Potential defenses and strategies include:

  • Challenging the Evidence – Was there unlawful search and seizure? Weak or circumstantial evidence?
  • Lack of Intent – Many juvenile offenses stem from peer pressure or misunderstandings.
  • Diversion & Rehabilitation – We fight for alternatives like counseling, community service, and educational programs rather than harsh penalties.
  • Keeping the Case in Juvenile Court – Preventing adult certification is crucial for reducing long-term consequences.

Why Choose Our Firm for Juvenile Defense?

Led by Attorney Adam Tisdell, our firm has grown into an expansive criminal defense practice capable of providing counsel in all types of cases. Whether your child has been ticketed by Amarillo City law enforcement or is facing more serious criminal allegations, we have what it takes to help.

  • Proven experience in Texas juvenile defense cases
  • A strategic, client-focused approach to every case
  • A strong commitment to protecting minors’ rights and futures

Call For a FREE Consultation: (806) 352-4844

If your child is facing juvenile charges in Dumas or surrounding counties, don’t wait to seek legal help. The earlier we get involved, the better the chances of securing a favorable outcome.

Contact our office today for a FREE and confidential consultation and let us fight for your child’s future.

Our FAQ

Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can’t find the answer you need? Give us a call at 806-216-3226 today!

  • How Can a Lawyer Help in a Juvenile Crime Case?

An experienced juvenile defense lawyer can protect your child’s rights, negotiate for lesser charges, seek alternatives to detention, and work to keep the case out of the adult court system

  • What Should I Do If My Child Is Arrested for a Crime in Amarillo?

If your child is arrested or ticketed for an offense, remain calm and contact an experienced juvenile defense attorney immediately. Do not allow your child to answer questions from law enforcement without legal representation.

  • Will My Child Go to Jail for a Juvenile Crime?

Juvenile cases prioritize rehabilitation over incarceration, but in serious cases, juveniles can be placed in detention centers, such as the Youth Center of the High Plains. Our goal is to pursue alternative solutions that keep your child’s future intact.

A teenage girl in handcuffs on a gray background. Juvenile delinquent, criminal liability of minors. Members of youth criminal groups and gangs.
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