Contributing to the delinquency of a minor in Adams County is an offense that involves encouraging or helping a juvenile break the law. This includes behaviors like giving kids alcohol for a party, supplying them with marijuana to smoke with friends, or even letting them stay out beyond a city's curfew.

Inducing, aiding, or encouraging minors under age 18 to violate any municipal, county, state, or federal law can come with devastating consequences. Anyone contacted by police regarding allegations of helping minors break the law should exercise their right to remain silent and consult an experienced defense attorney right away.

Adams County Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor Law

Adams County's contributing to the delinquency of a minor law prohibits aiding juveniles in unlawful behavior. CRS 18-6-701 defines this crime throughout the state of Colorado. You commit this offense in Thornton, Northglenn, or Commerce City if you:

• induce, aid, or encourage someone 17 or younger,
• to violate any federal or state law, municipal or county ordinance, or court order 

Interestingly, charges can result after a gesture of offering something to minors that would help them break the law, even if they don't follow through with the action. Whether or not the teens actually drink the alcohol or smoke the pot you provided is irrelevant.

Is Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor a Felony in Colorado?

Each of these cases is different. Penalties won't always look the same. As a class 4 felony, a conviction in Adams County can lead to:

• up to 6 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections,
• a minimum fine of $2,000

In some cases, a skilled criminal lawyer can argue that a probation sentence is more appropriate if there wasn't a serious risk of injury and no deadly weapons were involved. If the defendant works in a school district, the court notifies the Colorado Department of Education. Termination and a revoked teaching license can occur in these situations.

Colorado Defense Attorney for Crimes Against Minors

There is increased sensitivity when it comes to offenses against juveniles in Colorado. Aiding any unlawful behavior isn't tolerated. You need strategic criminal defense when it comes to accusations of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

Perhaps you never encouraged the minor's criminal behavior, they acted independently, or the teenager is lying. That said, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation. One of our seasoned criminal lawyers will carefully analyze your unique case and recommend next steps. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans so that strategic representation is a reality in these uncertain times.

Don't talk to the police - talk to us. 303-830-0880

 Photo by Ethan Johnson