Sarasota Juvenile Defense Lawyer

When your child faces an accusation, the questions reach beyond the next court date. You want to understand the process, protect your child's rights, and make informed decisions about school and the future. Daniel D. Nawara, a former Sarasota County juvenile prosecutor, represents young people facing delinquency allegations.

Meet Daniel or schedule a free consultation to discuss the allegation, your child's custody status, and any upcoming hearing.

How Florida juvenile cases begin

Florida's juvenile delinquency framework is primarily in Chapter 985, Florida Statutes. A case may involve a law-enforcement referral, an intake assessment by the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), and a decision by the State Attorney about whether to file a delinquency petition. An accusation does not establish that the child committed the offense.

Families may encounter a juvenile probation officer during intake, even before a court has imposed probation. The officer's assessment and recommendations are part of the process; they do not replace the advice of defense counsel. Ask your lawyer what a requested interview, form, or proposed program means before making decisions.

Detention hearings and the right to counsel

Under section 985.033, a child has the right to counsel in delinquency court proceedings. Counsel can also advise a represented child after arrest and before a detention hearing.

A child placed in detention care generally must receive a hearing within 24 hours of being taken into custody, subject to the statutory provisions in section 985.255. The court considers the legal detention criteria and risk assessment. Release is not automatic, and juvenile detention uses a different framework from an adult money bond.

If your child is in custody: Have the child's name, date of birth, facility, arrest paperwork, and hearing information ready when you call. Tell counsel about medical needs and any existing court orders.

Diversion, court proceedings, and possible outcomes

Some cases may qualify for diversion. Eligibility and approval depend on the allegation, history, program requirements, and decision-makers involved. The DJJ judicial-process guide explains that successful completion of an approved nonjudicial diversion program can avoid further court action; failing to complete it can lead to a formal petition.

If a petition proceeds, the defense can examine the evidence and discuss whether to contest the allegation or pursue a negotiated resolution. Juvenile proceedings can include an adjudicatory hearing and, if appropriate, a disposition hearing. Depending on the case, outcomes may involve supervision, services, probation, or residential commitment. No particular program or result is guaranteed.

Preparing your child's defense

The consultation is a place to discuss what happened and what matters to your family. Useful materials include:

Arrest or referral paperwork, court notices, and any release conditions.
Existing messages, photographs, or video that may relate to the allegation, preserved in their original form.
Names of potential witnesses and where relevant records may be found.
School schedules, support needs, and any prior juvenile case information.

A defense review can address identification, witness accounts, searches, statements, and what the State must prove. It can also consider information relevant to treatment or supervision options. Do not delete potential evidence or contact a protected person in violation of an order.

Questions parents often ask

Can a minor be prosecuted in adult court?

Yes, in circumstances authorized by Florida law. Age, the alleged offense, and prior history can matter. Section 985.556 addresses transfer proceedings, and section 985.557 addresses direct filing. If adult prosecution is raised, discuss it with counsel promptly.

Does the record automatically disappear at age 18?

Do not assume that it does. Florida has specific rules governing juvenile records and expungement. Eligibility and retention depend on the record and history. The FDLE record-sealing and expungement FAQs explain the available processes.

Can we discuss fees before hiring the firm?

Yes. The firm offers free consultations and payment options. The scope of representation and fee depend on the matter. Learn about fee discussions.

Talk with a Sarasota juvenile defense attorney

Call (941) 920-5514 or request a consultation. Our Sarasota office is at 240 N Washington Blvd, #460, Sarasota, FL 34236. Tell us if a detention hearing or another deadline is approaching.

General Florida legal information, updated September 25, 2026. Laws and procedures can change. The applicable law, facts, and court orders control your case. Reading this page or contacting the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship.