At Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, we understand that it can be extremely difficult to learn that your child has been arrested. Fear and uncertainty does not even begin to cover the spectrum of emotion you can feel. Though it is known that youths often act out, whether in rebellion or otherwise, getting caught up in a run in with the law due to illegal behavior can be something that could be life-changing for a child. If your child has been arrested, or if your child’s future is in danger due to a juvenile crime, you must speak with an experienced defense lawyer immediately.
We Are a Law Firm Devoted to Protecting
The Future of Your Child
When your child’s rights are hanging in the balance, our juvenile defense firm is prepared to fight to defend their rights.
Get a Confidential ConsultationWe Are a Top Juvenile Defense Firm
Proudly Defending Minors in the Area
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Meet Attorney Patrick J. Mclain
Former Federal Prosecutor Fighting for Your Freedom
Our firm's founder, Patrick McLain, is a retired Marine Corps military judge, who has been involved in the practice of criminal and military law since 1990. His first jury trials were tried in the deserts of Saudi Arabia during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He ended his Government service as a federal prosecutor in Dallas, Texas, where he handled cases involving child exploitation, computer crimes, and general federal crimes.
At the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, our attorney is dedicated to handling state criminal cases in Texas and federal crime cases in courts throughout the U.S. Additionally, Attorney McLain is proud to represent men and women of the armed forces, has a separate military law practice with offices across the country.
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Meet Suzy Vanegas
Associate Dallas Criminal Defense Attorney
From a young age, Attorney Suzy Vanegas has had the desire to help others. As a zealous advocate committed to keeping innocent people free, her philosophy is to provide clients with excellent representation and to make sure all of their constitutional rights are preserved. As an immigrant from Nicaragua, she knows how it is to start from behind.
Coming from a household that only spoke Spanish as the primary language, Suzy remembers the struggles she and her family had to endure on a daily basis. She was able to overcome these obstacles with perseverance and drive. Now, she uses that drive to fight for her clients and make sure they are warranted with a just result.
Suzy obtained her J.D. from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School in 2010 and her B.S. in Psychology in 2009 from the University of Oklahoma. She was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 2013.
Client Testimonials
Your Case Is in Good Hands
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“I would highly recommend Patrick McLain to anyone needing professional representation.”
Eddy
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“If anyone needs an attorney that will stand with you during your time of trouble, look no further.”
Child Abuse Client
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“A skilled criminal defense attorney and a good human being.”
Anonymous
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“He will fight for you.”
Sean O.
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“You will not go wrong with Patrick and his team on your side.”
Anonymous
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“If you are serious about winning, he is the attorney for you.”
Glen D.
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“There is no way I would have won my case without him representing me.”
Andrew W.
Our Experience Is Unmatched
Our Team Is Committed to Helping You Take Control of Your Future
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20+ Years' Active Service in the Marine Corps
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Former Federal Prosecutor in Your Corner
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Former USMC Defense Attorney on Your Side
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Retired Court Martial Trial Judge
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Featured on Al Jazeera, MSN, CBBC, CNN & More
Juvenile Criminal Penalties
Most juvenile courts have a wide range of sentencing options, which are used primarily to punish juveniles who have been found “delinquent,” or guilty of violating a criminal law. This includes things like incarceration and non-incarceration options.
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House arrest
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Electronic monitoring
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Sentence in a juvenile detention facility
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Probation or community service
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Extensive fines
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In some cases, sentence to adult jail
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The Juvenile
Justice SystemThe juvenile system has differences from adult criminal court. We can explain how the system handles young offenders so you know what to expect.
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Your Child’s
RightsYour child has rights that must be protected. Just like adults, minors have the right to remain silent & to have access to the best possible counsel.
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Your Child’s
FutureJuvenile charges do not mean they are somehow less severe. Your child deserves to live a life without the obstacles associated with a criminal record.
Juvenile Defense FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
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Questions
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My child was arrested. Will he/she be put in jail?
Answer
Because juvenile cases are handled differently, penalties typically will not involve jail. A juvenile may be faced with more serious penalties if the case is handled in adult court.
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What types of violations trigger a juvenile arrest?
Answer
Each state recognizes different types of violations as a juvenile offense. These can include things like curfew, truancy, liquor-related offenses, drug-related offenses, theft, and more.
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What age is considered to be juvenile?
Answer
Every state has different eligibility criterion, but most states recognize the maximum age for juvenile court as 18. Others can recognize 16 or 17 years, or as old as 19 years.
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What is the difference between juvenile and criminal court?
Answer
The juvenile system is much different than an adult criminal court, and therefore, the procedures are very different as well. Speak with an attorney to learn what to expect in your case.
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Possible Case Outcomes
Plea Agreement
If a case remains in juvenile court, the minor can enter a plea agreement. This is usually based on the condition that the juvenile attend counseling or other alternatives.
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Possible Case Outcomes
Judge Diversion
If a judge chooses to divert a case, the minor will need to complete a court-approved program. Failure to do so could force the court to reinstate the charges.
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Possible Case Outcomes
Adjudicatory Hearings
Also known as a juvenile trial, a judge will determine if the juvenile is delinquent (has violated criminal law). A judge will determine the penalties if the juvenile is ruled delinquent.
We Hear Your Concerns. You Aren’t Alone.
Let Us Help You Understand What to Expect
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Is my child
going to jail? -
How serious
is this? -
I can't afford
to pay the fines -
Is this going on my
criminal record? -
Can you help?
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They just made a mistake