Juvenile Defense Attorney in Boston

Finding out that your child has been arrested or is facing a juvenile charge in Massachusetts is shocking and frightening. You may be told to appear in Boston Juvenile Court or another juvenile session, often with very little explanation. You need clear guidance and a steady, experienced juvenile defense attorney in Boston.

I am Brad Bailey, a criminal defense attorney who has spent five decades in courtrooms as both a prosecutor and a defender. At our firm, we represent juveniles and young people in Boston and across Massachusetts, and our focus is on protecting their futures while guiding families through a confusing system. You do not have to try to navigate this alone.

At Brad Bailey Law, we offer free, confidential consultations and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can call (617) 500-0252 or reach out online to talk about what happened, what is coming next, and how we can help your child.

Common Juvenile Offenses Handled in Boston

While every case is unique, the Suffolk County Juvenile Court and the Somerville District Court frequently handle a core set of offenses involving minors. Our firm provides specialized defense for these common allegations, focusing on keeping the case in the delinquency track whenever possible.

• Property Crimes: Shoplifting, larceny (theft), and "tagging" or vandalism (malicious destruction of property) are among the most frequent charges. Often, these arise from poor impulse control or peer pressure.
• Assault and Battery: Fights at school or in local parks can quickly lead to criminal complaints. In Boston, school-related offenses are a primary entry point into the juvenile system, often involving threats or simple physical altercations.
• Drug and Alcohol Offenses: Underage drinking, minor in possession of alcohol, and possession of a controlled substance (including marijuana intent-to-distribute) are strictly enforced in the Commonwealth.
• Public Order Offenses: Charges like disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, and trespassing are frequently used by law enforcement during interactions with groups of young people in public spaces.
• Cyberbullying and Harassment: With the rise of digital communication, the Boston courts are seeing an increase in criminal harassment and stalking charges involving social media and cell phone use.
• Weapons Charges: Possession of a dangerous weapon (such as a knife, mace, or firearm) carries severe consequences, especially if the incident occurs on or near school property.

Understanding Juvenile Law in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts juvenile justice system (governed by M.G.L. c. 119) handles cases for children between the ages of 12 and 18. While these proceedings are technically "civil" rather than "criminal," the stakes are very real. The system is designed around the principle of parens patriae—the idea that the court acts as a protective guardian for the child.

In Boston, juvenile cases generally fall into two categories:

• Delinquency Complaints: These are the most common cases, involving acts that would be considered crimes if committed by an adult (such as shoplifting, drug possession, or simple assault). The primary goal is rehabilitation through the Department of Youth Services (DYS).
• Youthful Offender Indictments: This is a much more serious track for children aged 14 to 18 accused of a felony involving a firearm, serious bodily harm, or if they have a prior DYS commitment. Unlike standard delinquency cases, Youthful Offender proceedings are open to the public, and the judge has the power to impose adult prison sentences.

A Boston juvenile crimes lawyer from our firm will fight to keep your child’s case in the delinquency track, shielding them from the public eye and the risk of adult-level penalties.

Potential Consequences of Juvenile Offenses in Boston

Many parents believe juvenile court is "no big deal." This is a dangerous misconception. The consequences can be life-altering:

• DYS Commitment: A child can be committed to the custody of the Department of Youth Services until age 18 (or 21 for Youthful Offenders).
• School Discipline: Under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H½, a principal can suspend or expel a student simply for being charged with a felony, even if the incident happened off-campus.
• Firearm Prohibitions: Certain juvenile adjudications can result in a lifetime ban on possessing firearms in Massachusetts.
• College and Military: While records are "private," certain government agencies and high-security employers may still gain access during background checks.

What Happens In A Juvenile Case in Boston

Parents are often surprised at how quickly events move after a juvenile arrest or complaint in Massachusetts. A case may begin with a street arrest, school-related incident, or a summons ordering your child to appear in juvenile court in Boston, Suffolk County, Middlesex County, or another county. The first appearance typically involves an arraignment, where the court formally reads the charge and decides the conditions of release.

In some situations, the court may hold a detention hearing to decide whether a child can go home or will be held in Department of Youth Services custody while the case proceeds. Probation officers are often involved early and may interview you and your child, which can affect the court’s view of risk and supervision. These early moments are critical, because statements your child makes to police, school officials, or probation can later be used against them.

After your child is arrested or contacted by police, it is helpful to:

• Stay calm in front of your child and avoid discussing details of the incident at home.
• Tell your child not to answer questions from police, school officials, or probation without a lawyer present.
• Gather any paperwork you received, including summonses, complaints, or school reports.
• Write down names of officers, witnesses, and any school staff involved while events are fresh.
• Contact a juvenile defense attorney as soon as possible so you have guidance before the first court date.

When we speak, we explain the specific court your case is in, likely next steps, and what to expect at each hearing. Our goal is to replace confusion with a clear, realistic plan tailored to your child.

Why Parents Turn To Our Firm

Before our attorney began defending individuals, he served as an Assistant District Attorney in New York County (Manhattan) and as an Assistant District Attorney in Middlesex County here in Massachusetts. We later worked in the United States Attorney’s Office in Boston, first with the Organized Crime Strike Force and then with the Drug Task Force. 

That history gives us insight into how the Commonwealth and the federal government build and evaluate cases, including juvenile matters that may intersect with broader investigations. Over the years, we have been selected as Super Lawyers in multiple periods, named a National Top 100 Trial Lawyer, and honored with a 10.0 Avvo rating and an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale Hubbell.

For a family in crisis, these credentials are not abstract. They mean that when we walk into Boston Juvenile Court or another Massachusetts courtroom with your child, we bring decades of experience anticipating prosecutorial strategies, assessing the strength of the evidence, and making arguments about why a young person deserves another chance.

How We Defend Juvenile Charges in Boston

When we defend juvenile charges in Boston, we recognize that every child and every case is unique. Our first step is to listen closely to both you and your child, learning about their background, school history, family support, and any medical or counseling concerns. 

We focus not only on the allegations, but on who your child is and what they are facing beyond the courtroom.

• Conduct a thorough background review. We examine your child’s personal history, academic record, and support system to present a complete picture to the court.
• Analyze how the case was investigated. Drawing on prior prosecutorial experience, we evaluate whether law enforcement respected your child’s rights and whether any stops, searches, identifications, or statements can be challenged.
• Explore alternatives to incarceration. When appropriate, we advocate for diversion programs, community-based services, treatment options, or structured probation designed to promote rehabilitation.
• Prepare for trial when necessary. If the circumstances call for it, we build a strong defense and require the Commonwealth to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Protect your child’s long-term future. Every recommendation considers how the case may affect college applications, financial aid, employment, or professional licensing opportunities.

Talk To Us About Your Child Future

Right now, you may feel as if your family’s life has been turned upside down. A juvenile charge in Boston or anywhere in Massachusetts can have serious consequences, but you do not have to face it by yourself. With the right guidance, many families regain control and move forward.

As a juvenile defense lawyer in Boston, we bring five decades of criminal practice, substantial trial experience, and a background as a former state and federal prosecutor to every case. Our goal is to protect your child’s rights and to work toward outcomes that safeguard their future opportunities.

Call (617) 500-0252 or contact us online to speak with us about your child’s situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my child have a criminal record from this case?

Juvenile records in Massachusetts are treated differently from adult convictions, but they can still have consequences. How a case is resolved often affects what appears on background checks and what schools or employers may see. We explain the likely impact in your situation and work to reduce long-term harm.

Can my child be sent to adult court in Massachusetts?

In some serious cases, particularly those involving violence or weapons, prosecutors can seek adult-level treatment for a juvenile. Whether this is realistic depends on the exact charge and your child’s history. We evaluate that risk early and work to argue against any attempt to escalate the case.

Should my child talk to police or the school without you?

In most situations, it is safer for your child not to answer questions about an alleged offense without a lawyer present. Even well-meaning statements can be misunderstood or used later in court. We advise families to contact us before any interview so we can make careful decisions together.

How quickly can you get involved in a juvenile case?

I can usually get involved quickly, often before the first juvenile court appearance or any school discipline hearing. Early involvement lets us help protect your child’s rights and shape how the case is presented. We offer free consultations and are available 24 hours a day to respond.

Will you personally handle my child’s defense?

When you hire Brad Bailey Law for a juvenile case, you are hiring us as your attorney. We are directly involved in the strategy and key court appearances for the young people we represent. Our team supports our work behind the scenes, but we remain your primary point of contact.

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