Juvenile Crimes Attorney in White Plains

Former Westchester County Prosecutor, Fighting for Your Child's Future

When the Westchester County DA's office Family Court Bureau files a juvenile petition, Michael Borrelli already knows how that case was built. He spent his career inside the same office, supervising three DA branches, advising more than 20 police agencies, and training the prosecutors who handle these cases today. 

That extensive knowledge is a huge advantage in your child's situation. 

With more than 30+ years of criminal law experience and relationships across every court and police agency in Westchester County, Michael brings a level of preparation to juvenile defense that comes only from decades on both sides of the courtroom.

Your child's case can't wait. Call (914) 928-2766 now for a free, confidential consultation available 24/7, including nights and weekends. Hablamos español.

Juvenile Classifications Under New York Law

The single most important factor in your child's case is which legal category applies. Each classification determines the court, the potential consequences, and whether your child could end up with a criminal record.

Juvenile Delinquent

Under Article 3 of the Family Court Act, a child over 12 and under 18 who commits an act that would be a crime if committed by an adult may be classified as a juvenile delinquent. These cases are heard in Westchester County Family Court in White Plains, not in criminal court. Proceedings are confidential, and an adjudication of delinquency doesn't create a criminal record. 

In these instances, no bail is set. Instead, the judge decides whether to detain or release the child at each appearance. Fact-finding hearings are decided by a judge alone, with no jury.

Juvenile Offender

Children ages 13, 14, or 15 charged with certain serious or violent felonies under Penal Law Section 10.00(18) are classified as juvenile offenders. Their case starts in the Youth Part of Supreme or County Court, but it can be removed to Family Court. Because these charges carry the possibility of adult-level consequences, early intervention by an attorney with felony trial experience is critical.

Adolescent Offender

Under New York's Raise the Age legislation, 16- and 17-year-olds charged with felonies are classified as adolescent offenders. Their cases begin in the Youth Part of the Supreme or County Court with a presumption of removal to Family Court. This category was designed to keep older teens out of the adult criminal system whenever possible.

Youthful Offender Adjudication

For eligible youth ages 14 to 18, a Youthful Offender (YO) adjudication under CPL Article 720 can prevent a criminal conviction entirely. YO records are automatically sealed, and the young person doesn't have to disclose the adjudication on college or job applications. This is often the most protective outcome available for older teens facing serious charges.

Types of Juvenile Cases We Handle in Westchester County

Our White Plains juvenile crimes attorney assists clients with a variety of legal matters, including but not limited to:

• Shoplifting and petit larceny
• Criminal mischief and vandalism
• Disorderly conduct
• Trespassing
• Drug possession
• Underage drinking and fake ID possession
• Assault 
• Robbery
• Burglary 
• Weapons possession
• Drug sale offenses
• Sex offenses
• Sexting and internet-related offenses
• Zero-tolerance DWI (BAC of .02 or above for drivers under 21)

How Past Prosecution Experience Can Help Protect Your Child

Michael didn't just work alongside the Westchester County DA's office; he supervised three of its branches—New Rochelle, Northern Westchester, and Yorktown, trained Assistant District Attorneys across the county, and served as a legal advisor to more than 20 police agencies. He knows how officers gather evidence before a juvenile case reaches the DA's desk, how prosecutors evaluate that evidence, and where their preparation tends to fall short.

That background matters in concrete ways. When a juvenile offender case proceeds in the Youth Part, it calls for an attorney who can handle high-stakes felony litigation. Michael's excellent record across more than 40 felony trials, including charges of murder, robbery, burglary, and attempted murder, means your child's defense is backed by substantial courtroom experience.

In Family Court proceedings, the judge's impression of the child, the family, and the attorney carries real weight. Michael personally attends 99% of client court appearances, so you won't show up to find a junior associate standing in. The attorney you hired is the one advocating for your child at every stage, from diversion discussions with the Probation Department through disposition.

Juvenile Crimes FAQ

Will My Child End Up with a Criminal Record?

Juvenile delinquency adjudications in Family Court don't produce criminal records, and proceedings are confidential. For older teens, Youthful Offender status can prevent a criminal conviction even on felony charges and results in automatic record sealing.

What Happens at the First Court Appearance?

Before formal proceedings begin, the case may go through the Westchester County Probation Department for potential diversion or adjustment. If a petition is filed, the child and parent receive a copy and the child must have an attorney. Having counsel involved before this stage gives us the greatest opportunity to influence the outcome.

Can Police Question My Child Without a Lawyer?

Yes, and statements your child makes to police before an attorney is present can be used in the proceeding. Contact an attorney immediately after an arrest to protect your child's rights before any questioning occurs.

What's the Difference Between a Fact-Finding Hearing & a Disposition Hearing?

The fact-finding hearing determines whether your child committed the charged act. A judge decides this alone, with no jury. If the act is sustained, the disposition hearing determines what the court orders: supervision, treatment, community service, or in serious cases, placement.

How Quickly Should I Contact an Attorney?

Immediately. The earliest stages of a juvenile case, particularly probation intake and diversion, offer the best opportunity to resolve the case before a petition is formally filed.

Protect Your Child's Future Today

A juvenile charge doesn't have to define your child's life. The earlier you act, the more options we have to pursue diversion, challenge the prosecution's case, and work toward an outcome that protects your child's record.

Michael Borrelli offers free, confidential consultations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. We also serve Spanish-speaking families: hablamos español. 

Call (914) 928-2766 now to speak directly with our White Plains juvenile criminal defense attorney about your child's case.