Why September Matters for Juvenile Court in Michigan

If you've noticed a back-to-school buzz at the courthouse, you're not alone. Many Michigan juvenile defense attorneys, including our office here in Plymouth, take note of the increased number of minors facing criminal charges during the fall. Based on recent data and firsthand courtroom trends, the majority of juvenile offenses start to increase in the first weeks after school begins.

The structure and pressure of a new academic year often bring challenges that can spiral into legal trouble—especially for middle school and high school students. For many teens, changes in routine, social dynamics, and even mental health strain can contribute to poor decision-making.

Some schools also ramp up law enforcement presence in the opening month of classes, meaning that conduct which might have been handled by a principal or counselor during summer programs can now result in a formal police referral.

Common Juvenile Charges in the Fall

The juvenile charges we tend to see in September involve a range of conduct, from poor judgment in the lunchroom to much more serious cases. Here are the most common offenses minors face when they return to school:

• Disorderly Conduct: Loud or disruptive behavior, fights, or altercations between students are among the most frequent incidents reported at schools.
• Assault and Battery: Even minor physical contact or scuffles can result in assault charges, especially if there's a perceived threat or bodily injury—even in a school setting.
• Possession of Marijuana or Vapes: Despite shifting laws around marijuana, underage possession remains illegal in Michigan. Vaping on school grounds continues to prompt criminal and school disciplinary actions.
• Theft and Larceny: Incidents of shoplifting, stealing from classmates’ lockers, or taking unauthorized money or property are common, especially in junior high and high school environments.
• Cyberbullying or Online Harassment: Social media drama often heats up after school resumes and can lead to criminal responsibility when it involves threats, harassment, or the release of intimate imagery.
• Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC): While less common, we have seen an alarming increase in cases involving minor-on-minor sexual activity, especially when consent is ambiguous or when one party is below the Michigan statutory age threshold.
• Weapon Possession: A major concern for parents is the discovery of knives, tasers, or even BB guns in backpacks. In many cases, juveniles don’t understand the legal implications of bringing these items to school, even if they had no intent to use them.

Michigan’s Juvenile Court System: How It Works

The juvenile justice system in Michigan is designed to rehabilitate, not just punish. But that doesn’t mean the process is easy or forgiving. Here’s what typically happens when a minor is charged with a crime:

1. Police Referral or School Referral

Many juvenile cases begin with a school resource officer or police report. Unlike adult cases, juveniles aren’t automatically arrested and jailed. Instead, the process may start with a notice to appear in court—although serious offenses can still result in detention.

2. Intake and Preliminary Hearing

Juvenile cases start in the Family Division of the Circuit Court. A preliminary conference is held to review the allegations and determine if the prosecutor will file a formal petition (similar to a charging document in adult court).

3. Pleas and Adjudication

Minors can admit or deny the allegations. If the case goes to trial (adjudication), there's no jury—just a judge who decides the facts. If the minor is found responsible, the court will move forward with disposition (sentencing).

4. Sentencing and Outcomes

Outcomes in juvenile court can include probation, counseling, drug testing, community service, restitution, or placement in a juvenile facility. Some first-time offenders may be eligible for diversion programs that eliminate the need for formal charges altogether.

Michigan law recognizes that minors have different cognitive, emotional, and social development than adults. Judges aim more for rehabilitation than retribution—but make no mistake, a juvenile record can still have major consequences.

Prevention and Alternatives: Diversion Programs in Michigan

One of the best outcomes in a juvenile case is to avoid formal prosecution entirely. Michigan’s juvenile courts offer several diversion programs for non-violent first-time offenders. These programs focus on accountability, education, and restitution. If completed successfully, the minor avoids a juvenile adjudication on their record.

Some of the programs include:

• Youth Assistance: Offered in partnership with local schools, this program focuses on mentorship and restorative justice methods.
• Teen Court: First-time offenders judged by a jury of their peers, with real consequences and resolution through community-based monitoring.
• Consent Calendar: Used as an informal way of handling cases to avoid stigmatization of the juvenile while still addressing the conduct.

To be eligible, juveniles typically must accept responsibility for their actions and have the support of their parents or guardians. A strong juvenile defense attorney can help negotiate these alternatives to keep the child out of the formal system.

The Role of Parents and Guardians

When a minor is charged, parental involvement can significantly impact both outcome and rehabilitation. Courts look more favorably on minors whose families are involved, cooperative, and proactive about addressing underlying issues—whether educational, behavioral, or substance-related.

As a parent, here's what you can do if your child is facing juvenile charges:

• Hire a qualified criminal defense attorney with experience in Michigan juvenile law.
• Attend all court hearings and support services.
• Ensure compliance with all court-ordered conditions, such as school attendance, therapy, or drug testing.
• Avoid discussing court matters on social media or school forums—what you say can be used in court.

Most importantly, make sure your child understands the seriousness of the charges without drowning them in shame. Juvenile court is a wake-up call, but it doesn’t have to define a child’s future.

Can Juvenile Charges Be Expunged in Michigan?

Yes, in most cases juvenile records can be sealed or set aside once the case has been resolved and the minor has demonstrated rehabilitation. Michigan law allows for the automatic expungement of certain juvenile records under specific conditions.

However, not all charges qualify—especially those involving violence, weapons, or sex crimes. Expungement eligibility may depend on:

• The nature of the offense
• The age of the juvenile at the time of the offense
• Whether the juvenile completed sentencing requirements

An expunged record can restore eligibility for financial aid, college applications, and employment opportunities. That’s why it’s crucial to work with an experienced juvenile defense lawyer from the very beginning.

How to Get Help if Your Child Is Charged in Michigan

If your child has been charged with a juvenile offense in Michigan—don’t panic, but don’t wait. These are serious matters that require careful legal guidance, especially when it comes to navigating the court process and qualifying for diversion programs.

Aaron J. Boria is an experienced criminal defense attorney serving Plymouth and surrounding areas. He has helped numerous families get juvenile charges dismissed, reduced, or diverted out of the system entirely. With a proven track record and compassionate approach, our team is ready to fight for your child’s future.

Call Boria Law at (734) 453-7806 for a free and confidential consultation. We'll evaluate your case, speak directly with your child, and formulate a strategy to keep your family protected.

Conclusion

The start of the school year should be a time of fresh opportunities—not a gateway into Michigan’s juvenile court system. But every September, young people stumble into legal trouble that could follow them for years. The good news is, with the right legal team and a proactive plan, many of these kids can get back on the right track.

Whether it's a fight in the hallway, a vape in the locker, or a Facebook post that went too far, you don’t have to face the juvenile system alone. Protect your child, their education, and their future.

Contact criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806 to get the help your family needs today. We're here to guide you through it—one step at a time.