Juvenile Criminal Defense in Florida
By Christian Van Riper, Criminal Defense Attorney & Former Florida Prosecutor and DCF Investigator
When a child is accused of committing a crime, the consequences can extend far beyond the courtroom.
As a Florida criminal defense attorney, former Florida prosecutor, and former DCF investigator, I bring a unique perspective to
juvenile criminal defense in Florida, informed by years of experience on both sides of the justice system.
I understand how allegations affect a young person’s future, including education, military eligibility, employment,& family stability.
I understand how the prosecutors build their cases.
At Van Riper & Nies Attorneys, P.A., I represent juveniles and families throughout
Palm Beach County, Martin County, St. Lucie County, and Broward County,
including our offices in Stuart, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, and Deerfield Beach.
Understanding the Juvenile Justice System in Florida
Florida’s juvenile justice process is governed by Chapter 985, Florida Statutes, which establishes how law enforcement,
prosecutors, the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), and the Florida judges handle crimes committed by minors.
The juvenile system emphasizes:
- Rehabilitation
- Education and treatment
- Community-based programs
- Avoiding long-term criminal consequences
- Protecting future opportunities
Despite this rehabilitative purpose, the penalties can still be severe. Prosecutors may seek
adult charges under §985.557, Florida Statutes, especially in cases involving violence, weapons,
or repeat offenders. Early intervention from a seasoned Florida juvenile defense lawyer is critical.
Common Juvenile Offenses We Defend
I fight hard for clients in all juvenile offenses, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Some of the most frequent charges include:
Criminal Mischief (§806.13, F.S.)
Damaging property may result in felony charges when the damage exceeds $1,000 or involves a school, church, or public facility.
Lewd and Lascivious Behavior (§800.04, F.S.)
A highly serious allegation that requires immediate and skilled legal intervention.
Unlawful Possession or Use of Fake Identification (§322.212, F.S.)
Common among teens and often connected to alcohol or nightlife investigations.
Sexting Offenses (§847.0141, F.S.)
Florida law imposes escalating penalties on minors who send or possess explicit images, including civil citations and criminal charges.
Resisting Arrest With or Without Violence (§843.01–.02, F.S.)
Often charged when a juvenile reacts fearfully or impulsively during encounters with law enforcement.
Driving Without a License (§322.03, F.S.)
A frequent charge for teenagers and young adults.
Fleeing and Eluding (§316.1935, F.S.)
A felony charge that prosecutors pursue aggressively, even for juveniles.
Drug Possession (§893, F.S.)
Includes marijuana, THC vapes, controlled substances, and prescription pills.
Disorderly Conduct (§877.03, F.S.)
Often arises from school incidents or public disturbances.
Underage Alcohol Offenses (§562.111, F.S.)
Florida imposes school-related and licensing consequences for minors found in possession of alcohol.
Assault & Battery (§784, F.S.)
School fights, threats, or altercations may lead to misdemeanor or felony charges.
Burglary & Theft Crimes (§810, F.S.)
Entering vehicles, homes, or businesses without permission is prosecuted aggressively.
Possession of Weapons or Firearms (§790, F.S.)
Even temporary possession of a firearm can result in felony charges for juveniles.
At Van Riper & Nies, we evaluate every case for issues such as lack of intent,
improper police investigation, school-based misunderstandings, and protections under Chapter 985.
Why Christian Van Riper’s Background Matters
As both a former prosecutor and former DCF investigator, I bring a dual understanding of:
- How prosecutors and DJJ evaluate juvenile cases
- Internal policies guiding detention, diversion, and petitions
- School reporting rules and DCF involvement
- Protecting a child’s record and long-term future
This unique background allows me to anticipate the Florida prosecutor’s strategies and defend juveniles with unique insight.
Diversion, Detention & Court Options Under Chapter 985
Under Florida’s juvenile justice laws, minors may be eligible for:
- Civil Citations – Avoiding formal charges for first-time offenses
- Diversion Programs – Completing structured diversion programs in juvenile criminal cases to get charges dismissed
- Withhold of Adjudication – Avoiding a formal delinquency record
- Probation & Community Service – Focused on rehabilitation
- Commitment Programs – Non-secure or secure placement for serious cases
- Record Expungement – Florida offers expanded expungement options for minors
Our goal in juvenile criminal defense in Florida is simple: protect the child, protect the family, and protect the future.
Contact Our Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyer Christian Van Riper
I proudly represent juveniles and families throughout Palm Beach County, Martin County, St. Lucie County, Broward County,
and the Treasure Coast. We are a veteran-owned law firm. Call for a free consultation day or night.
Our Florida Criminal Defense Offices
Deerfield Beach Office
Van Riper & Nies Attorneys, P.A.
275 S. Federal Hwy., Suite 275
Deerfield Beach, FL 33441
Phone: (954) 369-0776
West Palm Beach Office
Van Riper & Nies Attorneys, P.A.
515 N. Flagler Dr., Suite P-300
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 855-8188
Stuart Office
Van Riper & Nies Attorneys, P.A.
900 SE Ocean Blvd., Suite 228
Stuart, FL 34994
Phone: (772) 283-8712
Boca Raton Office
Van Riper & Nies Attorneys, P.A.
7777 Glades Rd., Suite 100
Boca Raton, FL 33434
Phone: (561) 894-9862
Delray Beach Office
Van Riper & Nies Attorneys, P.A.
1615 S. Congress Ave., Suite 103
Delray Beach, FL 33445
Phone: (561) 894-9862