Las Vegas Criminal Lawyer
Common Juvenile Charges in Las Vegas
Defending Nevada’s Youth in the Juvenile Justice System
When a child or teenager is accused of committing a crime in Nevada, the potential consequences can affect every aspect of that young person’s future—from education and employment opportunities to driving privileges and even immigration status. While juvenile court is intended to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, the process is still serious, and a delinquency finding can have long-term effects.
Attorney Josh Tomsheck, a nationally Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer, registered specialist in criminal trial law with the State Bar of Nevada, and former Chief Deputy District Attorney in Clark County, has extensive experience defending juveniles against a wide range of charges. At Hofland & Tomsheck, the goal in every juvenile case is to protect the child’s future, resolve the matter with the least possible impact, and, whenever possible, prevent a lasting record.
Battery and Fighting Offenses
Battery, defined under NRS 200.481, is the willful and unlawful use of force or violence upon another person. In the juvenile context, battery charges frequently arise from school fights, disputes at social gatherings, or altercations in public places. If the allegations involve serious injury or use of a weapon, prosecutors may seek to transfer the case to adult court under NRS 62B.390.
Potential defenses include:
- Self-defense or defense of others
- Mutual combat with no clear aggressor
- Lack of intent to cause harm
- Misidentification or unreliable witness statements
Theft and Shoplifting
Juveniles accused of theft face charges based on the value of the property:
- Petit larceny (under $1,200) – NRS 205.240
- Grand larceny ($1,200 or more) – NRS 205.220
Common situations involve shoplifting from retail stores or taking personal property from another student. In some cases, prosecutors also file possession of stolen property charges under NRS 205.275.
Defense strategies may include:
- Demonstrating lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner
- Establishing rightful ownership or a reasonable belief of ownership
- Challenging the reliability of eyewitness or surveillance evidence
- Contesting unlawful search or seizure by store personnel or law enforcement
Burglary
Under NRS 205.060, burglary involves entering a structure or vehicle with the intent to commit a crime inside. Juvenile burglary cases often stem from allegations such as entering a school after hours, breaking into cars, or entering a residence without permission. Even without stolen property, prosecutors may pursue charges if they believe the intent to commit a crime existed at the time of entry.
Graffiti and Vandalism
Nevada law treats graffiti and property defacement as serious offenses under NRS 206.330. Juveniles adjudicated for graffiti offenses can face community service, restitution, and even driver’s license suspension under NRS 206.340.
Possible defenses include:
- Lack of evidence linking the juvenile to the graffiti
- No proof of intent to damage property
- Insufficient eyewitness or photographic identification
Drug and Alcohol Offenses
Minors are prohibited from possessing or consuming alcohol under NRS 202.020. Marijuana possession by anyone under 21 is prohibited under NRS 453.336, even in small amounts.
Juvenile drug and alcohol allegations may arise from:
- Possession at school events
- Marijuana or THC vape pen possession
- Sharing controlled substances among peers
Defense strategies may focus on:
- Illegal search and seizure by school officials or police
- Chain of custody problems for seized substances
- Pursuing diversionary programs to avoid formal adjudication
Weapons on School Property
Possession of certain weapons on school property is prohibited under NRS 202.265, including firearms, knives, tasers, and other dangerous items. Even if there is no intent to use the weapon, the presence on school grounds can result in severe penalties and disciplinary actions.
Possible defenses include:
- Lack of knowledge of the weapon’s presence
- No intent to use the item as a weapon
- Unlawful or overly intrusive search by school staff or law enforcement
Truancy and CHINS Petitions
A Child in Need of Supervision (CHINS) petition may be filed under NRS 392.144 for habitual truancy or other non-criminal misconduct such as curfew violations. While these cases are not considered crimes in the adult system, they can lead to court supervision, mandatory counseling, and restrictions on the juvenile’s activities.
Cyber and Technology-Related Offenses
Juveniles may face allegations related to online activity, including:
- Cyberbullying (NRS 388.123 definition and related penalties)
- Harassment or threats via electronic communication (NRS 200.571, NRS 200.575)
- Distribution of intimate images without consent (NRS 200.780–200.790)
These charges can result in significant legal consequences and lasting reputational harm.
Traffic Offenses
Juveniles may be cited for traffic violations such as:
- Driving without a license (NRS 483.550)
- Reckless driving (NRS 484B.653)
- Street racing (NRS 484B.6535)
These offenses can lead to license suspension, fines, and increased insurance costs, and in some cases may be handled outside of juvenile court.
Why Experience in Juvenile Defense Matters
Juvenile cases require a defense approach that not only addresses the immediate allegations but also safeguards the child’s future. Attorney Josh Tomsheck and the team at Hofland & Tomsheck understand the unique rules, terminology, and rehabilitation focus of Nevada’s juvenile courts. This includes:
- Challenging unlawful searches and seizures
- Protecting constitutional rights during police interviews
- Negotiating for diversion, informal supervision, or reduced charges
- Seeking outcomes that preserve eligibility for record sealing under NRS 62H
Contact Hofland & Tomsheck
Parents facing the stress of a juvenile criminal case need skilled legal guidance from the outset. Attorney Josh Tomsheck brings extensive trial experience, in-depth knowledge of Nevada juvenile law, and a proven record of success in achieving favorable results for young clients.
Contact Hofland & Tomsheck today for a confidential consultation to discuss the charges, potential defenses, and the best strategy for protecting your child’s future.
