Aggressive Juvenile Defense Lawyers And Former Prosecutors Protecting Your Minor Child’s Rights
Has your minor child been arrested for possession of a small amount of marijuana, driving without a license or vandalism in Sherman, or elsewhere in North Texas? Attorneys Bob Jarvis and Matt Hamilton at the Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm work hard to ensure that an arrest for a juvenile crime such as underage drinking or disorderly conduct does not establish a criminal record and embarrass your family.
These skilled lawyers bring more than 45 years of combined experience to your side during this difficult time. Our compassionate legal team believes deeply in second chances for young people who suffer a brush with the law. Whether your child is a local resident or college student in North Central Texas, we provide aggressive local representation that thoroughly protects your son’s or daughter’s rights. During the process, we offer maximum access to our knowledge, stay receptive to your goals and make sure you receive regular updates on your child’s case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Juvenile Crimes
This section addresses common questions about underage drinking and juvenile records in Texas.
What are the legal consequences for underage drinking in Texas?
A Minor in Possession (MIP) charge in Texas is a Class C misdemeanor. The penalties can escalate depending on prior offenses and case circumstances. For a first offense, a minor may face:
- A fine of up to $500
- 8 to 12 hours of community service focused on alcohol education or prevention
- Driver’s license suspension for 30 to 180 days, even if the offense did not involve driving
- Mandatory attendance in an Alcohol Awareness or Minor Alcohol Education Program
- A required court appearance with a parent or guardian, where the judge may issue additional conditions, such as probation
These consequences can feel administrative, but they create a formal juvenile record and may trigger stricter penalties for any future alcohol-related offense. That is why early legal intervention is important.
Does a juvenile conviction affect job opportunities or college applications?
A juvenile conviction in Texas is generally confidential, but it is not always invisible, especially if it is not sealed. In practice, it may affect:
- College admissions, particularly in competitive universities or scholarship programs that ask about disciplinary history
- Employment opportunities where background checks are required, especially internships or public-facing roles
- Licensing pathways for careers in health care, law enforcement or education
- Military applications, where moral character evaluations are strict
Even when records are technically sealed later, the timing matters. Early offenses can still influence decisions if they are discovered before sealing or if disclosures are required during the application process.
Is it possible to seal a juvenile record or have it expunged in Texas?
Yes, but it depends heavily on eligibility under Texas Family Code provisions. A juvenile record may be sealed if the child:
- Successfully completes all court-ordered requirements
- Has no additional offenses within the waiting period
- Meets statutory age and offense-type requirements
- Was not convicted for certain serious or violent offenses
Once sealed, the record is generally inaccessible to schools, employers and the public. Expungement, which is more limited, may fully destroy eligible records in specific cases.
Because eligibility rules are strict and procedural errors can delay or block relief, working with an attorney is essential. A lawyer can evaluate eligibility, file the correct petition and advocate in court to protect the child’s long-term record and future opportunities.
Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm – Decades Of Combined Experience, Guidance That Get Results
Bob Jarvis and Matt Hamilton are former prosecutors, which is beneficial to your teenager’s defense. They can anticipate and counter a prosecutor’s strategy. Their investigation of a client’s charges is always exhaustive, and their case preparation covers every detail. If a reduction or dismissal of charges is not possible, and if a conviction for a juvenile crime seems certain, they push for diversionary programs that deliver justice and send a strong message without hindering a juvenile’s opportunity for success in life. If your child is charged with a serious crime such as robbery, sexual assault or murder, he or she can be certified as an adult and tried under adult laws. It is imperative for you to get experienced legal counsel immediately to protect your child’s rights.
Call us for an appointment today. Act now to safeguard your family’s legal interests by calling or emailing the Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm. In North Central Texas, we have the proven track record – and the name you can trust. Our testimonials from past satisfied clients are proof that we can help. To meet with our lawyers in an informative, confidential, free initial consultation, reach us at 903-202-0516. We welcome your email message.