If You’re Facing Juvenile Charges in Minnesota, You Better Understand Fingerprinting Requirements.
When a juvenile faces charges of gross misdemeanors or felonies, Minnesota requires identification data including fingerprinting. At Jack Rice Defense, we understand the importance of ensuring that juveniles are aware of their rights and responsibilities. If you or your child is facing serious criminal allegations in juvenile court here in Minnesota, make sure you sit down with an experienced Minnesota juvenile defense attorney.
“Facing juvenile charges may have lifelong ramifications. These don’t just go away.”
The Legal Framework for Juvenile Cases
In Minnesota, the juvenile justice system is designed to handle cases involving individuals under the age of 18 differently from adult cases. While the overarching goal is supposed to be about rehabilitation, this isn’t always the case. When juveniles are charged with gross misdemeanors or felonies, the legal process becomes far more complex. This is why legal representation can matter so much.
Fingerprinting as Part of Due Process
Fingerprinting is a common component of the legal process, and it serves several important purposes:
Identification: The state uses fingerprinting as a method of identification.
Criminal Record: When somebody has a prior record, they can compare fingerprints in order to make sure that it is the same person. A prior record can impact current charges.
Evidence Preservation: Chain of custody can matter and sometimes the government will use fingerprints to support that.
Fingerprinting Requirements for Juveniles
When juveniles are charged in Minnesota with gross misdemeanors or felonies, they are subject to fingerprinting as part of the legal process.
Where is the Information sent?
This information is forwarded to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for the purpose of compiling a Juvenile Computerized History Record System (CHRS).
Who will have access to this information?
The CHR may be accessed by law enforcement, prosecutors, courts and correctional personnel connected with the performance of their duties. The system may also be used to determine if a person can be licensed or employed in certain jobs.
How long will this information be held?
This information will be held until the age of 21. If you are found guilty, it could be held until you are 28.
“Sometimes, people think juvenile doesn’t count. Lets be clear. Juvenile isn’t kid stuff.”
The Role of Legal Counsel
When a juvenile faces charges of gross misdemeanors or felonies, it is essential to involve legal counsel as early as possible. An experienced juvenile defense attorney, such as those at Jack Rice Defense, can guide the juvenile and their family through the legal process, including the fingerprinting requirements. Legal counsel can help ensure that the juvenile's rights are protected throughout the process, and they can advocate for the best possible outcome, whether it involves diversion programs, rehabilitation, or other measures aimed at a juvenile's well-being.
Go with the Best
Jack Rice is a nationally known and respected Minnesota juvenile defense attorney. He is a former prosecutor, a former CIA Officer and a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist. If you are your child is facing juvenile criminal charges here in Minnesota contact Jack Rice Defense and sit down for a free confidential consultation. Call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. When your life is on the line, Jack Rice Defense.