Juvenile Crimes

Protecting Your Child’s Rights & Future in Fort Walton Beach, FL

While juvenile mischief has been a part of every generation as far back as anyone can remember, the law takes criminal behavior by juveniles very seriously, and police officers rarely take minors home to their parents and have the family handle it like they used to. In order to prevent a haunting criminal record, it is crucial to have an aggressive and sound legal defense against juvenile charges. At Cotton & Gates, Attorneys at Law, we have extensive experience defending against juvenile crimes charges in northwest Florida. For more than 30 years, we have represented juveniles from Fort Walton Beach, Shalimar and Destin, and out-of-state visitors who were arrested while on vacation or spring break.

If your child’s future is at stake due to a criminal charge, contact our juvenile crime defense lawyers by phone at (850) 583-9379 for a free consultation.

Underage Drinking Defense Attorneys Serving Destin And Northwest Florida

Our dedicated defense attorneys represent juveniles facing a variety of charges in both juvenile and adult court, including:

Most juvenile cases are handled in juvenile court. However, if a case involves a felony, such as armed robbery or another felony offense, the possibility exists for the case to be tried in adult court, which exposes a juvenile to prison time and other harsh sentences. There are also options available to the court in sentencing a juvenile. Those include boot camp and sentencing as a youthful offender which limits the time that a juvenile may be incarcerated. We will fight to keep your case in juvenile court where it belongs.

The Importance Of Local Representation

For juveniles who get in trouble while on vacation or spring break, it is an advantage to have local representation. We understand how the local legal system works and may be able to handle your case without you having to return for a court appearance.

Early Intervention Is Key — Contact A Lawyer

If you are facing juvenile criminal charges, it is important to contact us as soon as possible to speak with an attorney. We accept collect calls from jail and can arrange after-hours appointments or jail visits to accommodate your circumstances.

Your Attorney

Cassie M. Reed is a former prosecutor who now leads our criminal defense and family law practice across Okaloosa County. To discuss your case, call (850) 583-9379 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Serving Fort Walton Beach and All of Okaloosa County

Looking for a juvenile defense attorney near you? Cotton & Gates serves Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, Crestview, Shalimar, and the surrounding Okaloosa County communities. Most clients reach our Shalimar office in 15 minutes or less from anywhere in Okaloosa County.

Need a complete overview of our Fort Walton Beach legal services? See our Lawyers in Fort Walton Beach page for a firm-wide summary, attorney profiles, service-area details, and answers to questions about working with Cotton & Gates.

Why Choose Cotton & Gates, Attorneys at Law?

Our lawyers provide the personal service and zealous representation we would want if we were in your situation.

  • Convenient Payment Plans
    Ask about our payment plan options and pay the way you'd like.
  • Former Prosecutor Experience
    We have experience on both sides of the courtroom.
  • Fully Remote Legal Services
    Whenever possible, we offer innovative solutions to make life easier for you.
  • Start with a Virtual Consult
    With virtual consultations, it's easier than ever to get started.
    "If you need a great attorney, THIS IS YOUR TEAM!"
    He literally saved my life!
    - Dawn H.
    "There are not enough stars to express my gratitude."
    I have anxiety issues and she handled my husband's case so eloquently that I did not have to worry about anything.
    - Ann D.
    "We Won!"

    When you find yourself needing an attorney and your life is in chaos. Call Attorney Cotton. He had my back all the way. He was worth every penny and I can't thank him enough!! We won!!

    - Paula J.
    "The solid right-hand man you want in your corner!"
    Byron didn’t just focus on the legal facts—he checked in on me as a human being.
    - Jason M.
    "Highly Recommend"
    She took on my very dynamic caseload and never shied away in the face of adversity.
    - Mike M.
    "Highly Recommend"

    I heard about Mr. Cotton through a friend who had good results. Mr. Cotton was also able to successfully take care of my case as well. It was very easy to communicate with his team to ask questions, relay information and get important updates.

    - L. Williams

Contact Cotton & Gates Now!

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