(586) 243-4140
    Law Offices ofScott E. Rabaut
    All Practice Areas

    Juvenile Petition

    A mistake doesn't have to define their future.

    Your child made a mistake — but that doesn't have to define the rest of their life. The juvenile justice system in Michigan operates differently from the adult system, and the right juvenile defense attorney can make all the difference in protecting your child's record, their education, and their future opportunities.

    Call Now — (586) 243-4140

    Understanding the Charge

    Michigan's juvenile justice system handles cases involving minors (under 17) who are accused of criminal offenses — including Minor in Possession (MIP), vandalism, retail fraud, assault, and more. The system is designed to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, but the consequences can still be severe — including detention, probation, and in serious cases, waiver to adult court.

    Juvenile proceedings are handled in family court and are generally confidential. However, certain serious offenses can result in a juvenile being tried as an adult, which carries all the penalties of the adult criminal justice system.

    Beyond the courtroom, Scott also serves as a school discipline attorney — representing students facing suspension and expulsion hearings throughout Macomb County, Oakland County, and surrounding areas. Even when no criminal charges are filed, a school disciplinary action can derail a student's education, college prospects, and future. Scott advocates for students and families in these hearings, fighting to prevent expulsions and protect their academic record.

    Scott understands the unique dynamics of juvenile cases. He works closely with families to navigate both the justice system and the school system, advocates for rehabilitation over punishment, and fights to keep your child's record sealed so they can move forward with their life.

    Call Now — (586) 243-4140

    Potential Penalties

    OffensePenalty
    Minor Offense (e.g., Vandalism)Probation, community service, counseling, possible detention
    Moderate Offense (e.g., Retail Fraud)Intensive probation, restitution, possible placement in juvenile facility
    Serious Offense (e.g., Assault)Long-term detention, residential treatment, possible adult court waiver
    Waiver to Adult CourtAdult criminal penalties including jail or prison, permanent adult criminal record
    School Discipline (Expulsion Hearing)Long-term suspension, expulsion, permanent notation on academic record
    Facing These Penalties? Call Now — (586) 243-4140

    Why Hire Scott for This Case

    • ✓Experienced in juvenile proceedings across Macomb and Oakland counties
    • ✓Represents students in school discipline and expulsion hearings
    • ✓Advocates for rehabilitation, diversion, and record sealing
    • ✓Handles MIP (Minor in Possession) cases
    • ✓Works closely with families throughout the entire process
    • ✓Understands how to prevent waiver to adult court
    • ✓Protects your child's educational and future employment opportunities
    Call Now — (586) 243-4140

    Frequently Asked Questions

    In most cases, juvenile records are confidential and can be sealed. However, certain serious offenses may result in records that are harder to seal. Scott works to protect your child's record from the start and can advise on juvenile record expungement.

    Do not let your child make any statements to police without an attorney present. Contact a juvenile defense attorney immediately. Scott is available 24/7 at (586) 243-4140 and works closely with parents to protect their child's rights and future.

    Yes. For certain serious offenses, the prosecution can request a waiver to adult court. This is one of the most critical fights in juvenile defense, and Scott works aggressively to keep cases in juvenile court where rehabilitation is the focus.

    No. Your child has the same constitutional rights as an adult, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Do not allow your child to make any statements without an attorney present.

    Yes. School expulsion hearings may seem informal, but the consequences are serious and lasting. As a school discipline attorney, Scott represents students and families in these proceedings, presenting evidence and arguments to prevent expulsion and protect your child's academic future.

    Juvenile hearings are less formal than adult court but still carry serious consequences. Scott will be with your child at every hearing, advocating for the most favorable outcome and guiding your family through each step.

    The Right Move Is the One You Make Right Now.

    Every day that passes without the right attorney in your corner is a day the other side uses to build their case.

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    (586) 243-4140

    Law Offices of Scott E. Rabaut

    38600 Van Dyke Ave., Suite 200
    Sterling Heights, MI 48312

    Callback within 24 hours — sooner when urgency requires it.