Towson Juvenile Restoration Act (JRA) Attorney

Defense Attorney Helping Clients With the Juvenile Restoration Act (JRA) in Maryland

The Juvenile Restoration Act of 2021 marked a significant shift in Maryland's approach to juvenile justice, reflecting a broader movement toward reforming the ways that minors are treated when they are involved in the legal system. This law acknowledges the fundamental differences between juvenile and adult offenders, emphasizing rehabilitation over punitive measures. It aligns with evolving societal and legal perspectives that recognize the developmental distinctions between children and adults and the potential for growth and change in young people.

At Seger Law, LLC, we provide legal representation for minors who have been charged with juvenile crimes, and we also work to help minors and others obtain post-conviction relief. We can help determine whether a minor who was charged as an adult and sentenced to prison will be eligible for a sentence modification, and we can determine what other options may be available to ensure that a juvenile offender can avoid run-ins with the law in the future.

Prohibition of Life Sentences Without Parole for Minors

One of the cornerstone provisions of the Juvenile Restoration Act (JRA) is the limits on excessive sentences for minors who are charged with criminal offenses. This rule underscores the belief in the capacity for transformation and rehabilitation in young people. It acknowledges that sentencing minors to life without parole does not account for their potential to mature and rehabilitate, and it offers a path toward redemption and a second chance.

Sentencing Flexibility for Minors Charged as Adults

In cases where juvenile cases are transferred to adult courts, minors may face serious penalties if they are convicted of criminal offenses. The JRA provides judges with the discretion to impose sentences below the mandatory minimums that would apply for adults charged with certain offenses. This flexibility recognizes the unique circumstances and developmental status of minors. It allows the justice system to tailor sentences that reflect the individual needs of young offenders and their potential for rehabilitation.

Opportunities for Sentence Reduction

Under the Juvenile Restoration Act, people who received long prison sentences as minors have the opportunity to seek sentence reductions after serving 20 years of incarceration. This provision is a beacon of hope for those who have demonstrated significant personal growth and rehabilitation. To qualify for sentence reduction, a person must generally show evidence of maturity and rehabilitation and a readiness to reintegrate into society as a responsible citizen. A reduced sentence may be appropriate if a juvenile offender will not present a danger to the public if they are released and if the interests of justice will be better served by allowing for an early release.

When determining whether a sentence reduction may be appropriate, a judge may consider factors such as:

• The person's age when they allegedly committed the offense in question.
• The nature and severity of the alleged offense, including the person's level of involvement in crimes committed in conjunction with adults or other minors.
• The person's history of involvement with the legal system and any relevant characteristics that may affect their ability to re-integrate into society.
• Family circumstances, diminished capacity to understand the consequences of their actions, mental health issues, or other factors that may have affected a person at the time of the alleged offense.
• Whether the person has followed the rules of a correctional facility while incarcerated.
• Whether the person has demonstrated that they have attained maturity and taken steps toward rehabilitation.
• Whether the person has taken steps toward self-improvement, such as by completing educational or vocational programs.
• Statements from victims of the crimes the person allegedly committed.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating the complexities of the juvenile justice system can be challenging for young people and their families. Legal representation is crucial in ensuring that the rights of minors are protected and that they can benefit from the provisions of the JRA and other related laws. At Seger Law, LLC, we have experience in juvenile law and post-conviction matters, and we can provide invaluable guidance and advocate on behalf of a person who allegedly committed crimes as a minor, helping them take steps to receive relief.

Contact Our Towson, MD Juvenile Restoration Act Lawyer

The Juvenile Restoration Act has been a significant step forward in Maryland's commitment to a more just approach to juvenile justice. By focusing on the potential for growth, change, and rehabilitation in young offenders, this law offers a path toward a brighter future for minors who are involved in the legal system. At Seger Law, LLC, our attorney provides representation in juvenile delinquency cases, and we also work with people who were sentenced as minors, helping them understand their options for sentence reductions or other forms of relief. Contact us by calling 443-208-4692 to set up a free consultation.