Facing Juvenile Crime Charges in Rockingham County? Our Defense Team Is Ready to Protect Your Child’s Future
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we are relentless criminal defense attorneys dedicated to defending minors facing juvenile criminal charges in Rockingham County, New Hampshire. Whether you’re from Brentwood, Candia, Derry, Hampton, Portsmouth, or Salem, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson takes your case personally. We bring the combined force of aggressive trial advocacy and insider experience from a former prosecutor to fight for your child’s future.
Understanding Juvenile Crimes Under New Hampshire Law
New Hampshire’s Juvenile Justice System treats minors under 18 differently, but charges still carry real consequences. While the RSA chapters define offenses without specifying juvenile processes, crimes like assault, theft, drug possession, vandalism, DUI, and even serious felonies are governed under the same criminal statutes. However, juveniles are handled through the Family Division of the District Court, where potential outcomes range from diversion, probation, counseling, and restitution to more serious penalties like extended court-ordered programs and juvenile detention.
The system exists to rehabilitate, but a prior record can affect future opportunities. That’s why our defense isn’t just legal—it’s personal. We’ll craft a strategy that protects your child’s record, minimizes penalties, and preserves their potential.
Why Choose Our Firm?
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we bring together a focused team of Rockingham County criminal defense attorneys with years of experience handling Juvenile Crimes. What sets us apart is our strategic, client-focused approach and our insider perspective, as one of our attorneys is a former prosecutor who understands how cases are built and how to challenge them effectively.
We are not only prepared to defend your child in court, but also committed to guiding families through the emotional and legal stress of the process. Every case is treated with urgency, attention, and the goal of securing the best possible outcome. Our team is passionate about protecting minors’ futures by exploring every legal option: whether through diversion programs, reduced charges, or dismissal. You’ll have a legal partner who listens, responds, and takes your child’s case as seriously as you do.
How We Handle Juvenile Cases in Rockingham County
We take a comprehensive, youth-centered approach to defending juveniles: protecting their rights, minimizing disruption to their lives, and guiding families through every stage of the legal process.
- Factual investigation & procedural safeguards
We scrutinize arrest procedures, including questioning, school involvement, and search and seizure under RSA Title LXII. We assess whether your teen’s rights were respected and challenge any breach. - Advocacy with relevant parties
Often, the best outcome is achieved outside the courtroom. We negotiate with school officials, juvenile probation, and DCYF to prevent needless disruption to your child’s education and emotional development. - Courtroom excellence when needed
When hearings are required—arraignments, pretrial motions, disposition hearings—we present compelling evidence, experts, and witnesses. We focus on your teen’s maturity, school standing, and rehabilitative path. - Post-case services
If consequences include probation, counseling, or other court orders, we ensure compliance is realistic. We also guide you through sealing records when eligible.
Types of Juvenile Crimes We Defend
We defend minors facing charges under RSA Title LXII, including:
- Delinquency petitions (juvenile classifications of crime)
- Alcohol & drug offenses — Underage possession, possession of controlled substances
- Assault & threats — Charges under RSA Chapters 631–635
- Theft & property crimes — Shoplifting, vandalism, trespass
- School-related incidents — Fight allegations or disruption
- Serious wrongdoing — Warrant every tactic to avoid adult court certification
Our experience ensures your child is treated as a juvenile throughout proceedings, not an adult facing lifetime consequences.
Contact Us Now to Set Up a Strategy Session
Your child’s future depends on early, experienced intervention. Don’t wait until formal charges are filed or a hearing is scheduled. Contact us now to set up a strategy session, and let’s begin designing a solution that protects your child’s record, education, and life path.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Juvenile Delinquency Petition?
A Juvenile Delinquency Petition is a formal charge under RSA Title LXII, indicating your child is alleged to have committed an offense. It activates juvenile court jurisdiction and initiates protective or rehabilitative processes, not criminal punishment.
Can a juvenile record be sealed or expunged in New Hampshire?
Yes. Under RSA Title LXII, if your child completes probation or alternative programs without reoffending, records can often be sealed. We guide families through each step to preserve your child’s future.
What happens if a child is certified as an adult?
In serious cases (e.g., violent felony allegations), prosecutors may file for certification to adult court. Our team specializes in blocking these proceedings: championing your child’s age, maturity, and community support, and minimizing risks.
Will my child go to detention?
Detention is not automatic. Courts evaluate risk, support system, and rehabilitation potential. We argue aggressively for release to your care under community-based supports and education-focused programs.
Do juvenile cases appear in background checks?
Typically no, if proceedings stay within juvenile jurisdiction and records are sealed. We work to prevent your child’s record from affecting college, student housing, or employment options.