Facing Juvenile Charges in Portsmouth? A Local Attorney Can Help You Protect Your Child’s Future
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand how frightening and overwhelming it can be when your child is accused of a crime. Whether it’s a one-time mistake or a misunderstanding, a criminal charge can follow a minor long after they turn 18. Our juvenile defense attorney in Portsmouth’s goal is to guide you and your family through the juvenile justice process in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and fight for the best outcome possible. As an aggressive criminal defense attorney with a deep understanding of the New Hampshire legal system, our team takes every case seriously because when a young person’s future is at stake, nothing is more important.
What Counts as a Juvenile Crime in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, juvenile cases are handled differently from adult criminal cases. According to NH RSA Chapter 169-B, a juvenile delinquent is someone under the age of 18 who commits an act that would be considered a crime if committed by an adult. These cases are brought before the Family Division of the Circuit Court, and they aim to balance accountability with rehabilitation.
Some of the common juvenile offenses we see in Portsmouth and surrounding towns include:
- Theft or shoplifting
- Vandalism or property damage
- Underage drinking
- Assault or fighting at school
- Drug possession or use
- Trespassing
- Cybercrimes and online threats
More serious offenses may lead to a child being charged as a Youthful Offender, which can have more lasting consequences under RSA 169-B:35. This allows the court to impose adult-like penalties if the juvenile is 17 or older and has committed a felony-level offense.
How the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson Handles Juvenile Defense
Juvenile cases are not simply “small versions” of adult criminal trials—they require a unique legal approach and an understanding of both the law and adolescent development. Our firm brings:
- Extensive trial experience in both juvenile and adult courtrooms
- A former prosecutor’s insight into how these cases are built and prosecuted
- A personalized strategy designed around your child’s specific case, goals, and risks
We prioritize finding resolutions that keep our clients out of detention, preserve their records, and focus on long-term opportunities like diversion programs, counseling, and education rather than harsh penalties.
What is a Youthful Offender in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, a Youthful Offender designation under RSA 169-B:35 can apply to a juvenile who is:
- 17 years old or older,
- Has committed a felony or serious offense, and
- Considered not likely to benefit from the juvenile system alone.
This means the judge has the discretion to sentence a juvenile similarly to an adult offender, including incarceration at the Department of Corrections rather than a juvenile facility. If your child is facing this designation, it is critical to work with a Portsmouth criminal defense lawyer who understands how to push back against these recommendations and argue for alternatives.
The Importance of Early Action and Local Representation
If your child has been charged with a juvenile offense in Portsmouth or the surrounding Rockingham County area, acting quickly can make a significant difference. In many cases, we can intervene before formal charges are even filed, working with law enforcement and the prosecutor to pursue less damaging outcomes.
Our familiarity with local courts and procedures allows us to act efficiently. We know how the juvenile court system in Portsmouth operates and can help prepare you for every step, whether it’s a detention hearing, adjudication, or sentencing.
We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. We sit down with families, review every detail of the situation, and build a strategy aimed at protecting your child’s future, whether that means:
- Negotiating for dismissal or diversion
- Fighting for sealed records
- Challenging school-based evidence
- Representing your child in court
Contact us now to set up a strategy session and find out how we can help your child move forward.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson for Juvenile Defense in Portsmouth?
Our firm doesn’t just defend; we advocate. As a Juvenile defense attorney in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, we fight to ensure that one mistake doesn’t define your child’s life. We bring a combination of local experience, legal strategy, and genuine care to each case. When your family is facing something this serious, you deserve a legal team that’s responsive, honest, and committed to results.
The sooner you reach out, the more we can do to help. Whether your child has already been charged or is under investigation, let us work with you to put the right strategy in place.
Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Child’s Future
Juvenile charges don’t have to derail a young person’s life. With the right legal support, there are options—diversion programs, counseling-based alternatives, and second chances. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we are committed to helping young people move past legal troubles and onto a better path.
If your child has been charged with a crime, don’t wait. Contact us today to set up a strategy session and speak with a trusted Juvenile Crimes defense attorney in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
We’re ready to fight for your child’s future—because we believe in it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a juvenile be tried as an adult in New Hampshire?
Yes, under RSA 169-B:24 and RSA 169-B:35, a juvenile may be certified as an adult if the court finds that the offense is serious enough and the juvenile system is unlikely to be effective. This is typically reserved for serious felonies and older teens.
Will a juvenile record show up in the future?
In many cases, juvenile records are confidential. However, some offenses—especially if the juvenile is designated as a Youthful Offender—may impact future background checks unless sealed. A defense attorney can help petition for expungement or record sealing when appropriate.
What happens during a juvenile court hearing in Portsmouth?
The process often includes arraignment, possible detention hearings, adjudicatory hearings (similar to trials), and dispositional hearings (sentencing). The judge, not a jury, decides the case. A lawyer can help guide you through each stage and ensure your child’s rights are protected.
Can my child avoid court altogether?
Yes, in some cases. Through pretrial diversion programs or informal adjustments, charges may be resolved outside of court. These programs often involve counseling, community service, or other conditions and may result in no formal conviction.
What are the penalties for juvenile crimes in New Hampshire?
Penalties can range from a warning or counseling to probation, community service, restitution, or detention in a juvenile facility. More serious offenses may lead to a Youthful Offender designation or even adult sentencing in rare cases.