Juvenile criminal law is a highly specialized field that requires specific technical expertise and a particular sensitivity to the developmental dynamics of adolescence. When a minor becomes involved in criminal proceedings, the consequences do not relate only to the single episode, but may influence the entire path of growth and the formation of personality. For this reason, juvenile criminal defence must combine legal rigour with an understanding of the psychological and educational features typical of this stage of life. Our experience in this area has shown us that every case requires an approach tailored to the specific circumstances of the minor and to their family and social context. From the outset of the proceedings through to their conclusion, we develop defence strategies that respect the principle of minimal procedural intrusiveness, promoting accountability without compromising the young person’s future prospects.
Dedicated legal assistance in juvenile criminal proceedings
We provide legal assistance and criminal defence to minors and young adults involved in proceedings before the Juvenile Prosecutor’s Office and the Juvenile Court. Our expertise covers all offences committed while under the age of majority, with particular command of the procedural rules governing juvenile jurisdiction, from diversionary measures such as irrelevance of the fact and probation (messa alla prova), to the specific features of evidence gathering and the conduct of the hearing. We also assist parents and those exercising parental responsibility in matters connected to the proceedings.
Method of intervention in juvenile proceedings
Our approach is structured through specific phases adapted to the needs of juvenile proceedings:
- Assessment – analysis of the legal position and the minor’s psycho-social context
- Family coordination – active involvement of parents in strategic choices
- Strategy – identification of the most effective defence approach
- Protective measures – preparation of the necessary safeguards
- Investigations – collection of evidence and technical assessments in support
- Integrated defence – procedural representation coordinated with educational and rehabilitative aspects
Collaboration with child and adolescent specialists
Over the years, we have developed a network of collaboration with child and adolescent psychologists, criminologists, educational specialists, and social workers experienced in juvenile matters. This multidisciplinary synergy allows us to provide a defence that addresses not only the strictly legal aspects, but also the minor’s needs for growth and maturation.
Confidentiality and identity protection
Protecting a minor’s privacy is an absolute priority at every stage of the proceedings. We ensure the highest level of confidentiality in the management of the case and take all necessary precautions to preserve the minor’s identity and protect their future from possible negative consequences arising from media exposure or social dissemination of the proceedings.
Territorial scope
We operate throughout Italy before the Juvenile Courts, with a strong presence in Lombardy, where we regularly assist clients in the provinces of Milan, Monza, Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Cremona, Mantua, Pavia, Sondrio, and Varese. Our experience also extends to proceedings that require coordination with juvenile authorities in other European countries.
Offences we handle
We provide legal assistance for all offences committed by minors, with particular experience in:
- Offences against the person: homicide, personal injury, negligent injury, assault, failure to render assistance, etc.
- Offences against personal liberty. kidnapping, coercion, threats, etc.
- Sexual offences: sexual assault, harassment, revenge porn, child pornography, sextortion, deepnude, sexting, etc.
- Offences against the family: stalking, ill-treatment within the family, domestic violence, incest, etc.
- Offences against honour: defamation, online and social media defamation, etc.
- Property offences: fraud, robbery, extortion, usury, theft, misappropriation, handling of stolen goods, financial fraud, offences involving cryptocurrencies and new technologies, etc.
- Drug-related offences: cultivation, production, possession, trafficking, and supply of controlled substances, etc.
- Cybercrime and cyberbullying: unlawful access to IT systems, online harassment, dissemination of intimate images, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does juvenile criminal procedure work?
Juvenile criminal proceedings follow specific rules aimed at protecting the minor and supporting rehabilitation. They include procedural mechanisms such as suspension of proceedings with probation, judicial pardon, and decisions of no case to answer for irrelevance of the fact.
What are the consequences of a conviction for a minor?
Consequences are generally less severe than for adults and are oriented toward rehabilitation. The minor’s criminal record is confidential, and many outcomes are automatically extinguished upon reaching the age of majority.
Can parents be involved in the proceedings?
Yes. Parents have the right to be informed and to assist the minor during the proceedings. In some cases, they may also be held civilly liable for damage caused by the minor.
What does probation (messa alla prova) mean in juvenile proceedings?
It is a mechanism that allows proceedings to be suspended so the minor can follow an educational and restorative programme. If successfully completed, the proceedings are discontinued without a conviction.
How is a minor’s privacy protected?
The law provides an absolute prohibition on publishing names, images, or any other elements that may lead to the identification of the minor involved in criminal proceedings.
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