At Law Office of Cynthia Mendoza, we understand that it can be extremely difficult to learn that your child has been arrested. Fear and uncertainty does not even begin to cover the spectrum of emotion you can feel. Though it is known that youths often act out, whether in rebellion or otherwise, getting caught up in a run in with the law due to illegal behavior can be something that could be life-changing for a child. If your child has been arrested, or if your child’s future is in danger due to a juvenile crime, you must speak with an experienced defense lawyer immediately.
We Are a Law Firm Devoted to Protecting
The Future of Your Child
When your child’s rights are hanging in the balance, our juvenile defense firm is prepared to fight to defend their rights.
Get a Free ConsultationWe Are a Top Juvenile Defense Firm
Proudly Defending Minors in the Area
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Cynthia Mendoza
Founding Attorney
If you have been arrested for a criminal offense, it is imperative that you retain the immediate representation of a hard-hitting and trial-tested legal advocate. Attorney Cynthia Mendoza has extensive experience defending the rights of the criminally accused. When you choose to enlist her assistance, you can be confident that you have made the right choice. She will go to bat for you.
Attorney Cynthia Mendoza was born and raised in Western Texas. She attended Texas Tech University for her undergraduate degree and Texas Tech University School of Law for her Juris Doctorate. She currently assists clients throughout West Texas from an office location conveniently located near the Lubbock Federal Courthouse and the Lubbock County Courthouse.
Since establishing the Law Office of Cynthia Mendoza in 2006, Cynthia Mendoza has focused her practice exclusively on criminal defense with the determination to offer legal help to those who have been charged with or accused of a variety of crimes. She works to protect the future and the freedom of her clients and understands how an arrest can cause stress, anxiety, and confusion. This is why Cynthia takes the time to help all of her clients understand what they are facing, what their options are, and what the process entails.
Verdicts & Settlements
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Robbery
Case Dismissed
Client was charged with Aggravated Robbery, a first degree felony. After Cynthia Mendoza overwhelmed the prosecutor with evidence that did not support the charge, the case was completely dismissed one week before the jury trial was to begin.
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Sex Crime
Case Dismissed
Client was charged with Aggravated Sex Assault of a Child, a first degree felony. After intensive investigation of the case, Cynthia Mendoza was able to prove the 16 year old “victim” was lying. The case was completely dismissed.
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Assault
Case Dismissed
Client was charged with Aggravated Assault with Bodily Injury and Deadly Weapon, a second degree felony. The prosecution alleged client had fractured multiples bones of his 15 month old son. After comprehensive medical research, Cynthia Mendoza was able to show the prosecution that the baby suffered from a brittle bone medical condition that caused the fractures. The case was completely dismissed.
Law Office of Cynthia Mendoza
The Right Choice for Hard-Hitting Defense
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Se Habla Español
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We Have Extensive Experience Handling State & Federal Cases
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We Have an Excellent Reputation in the Texas Legal Community
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We Thoroughly Prepare Each Criminal Case We Take on for Trial
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Free Consultations
Juvenile Criminal Penalties
Most juvenile courts have a wide range of sentencing options, which are used primarily to punish juveniles who have been found “delinquent,” or guilty of violating a criminal law. This includes things like incarceration and non-incarceration options.
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House arrest
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Electronic monitoring
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Sentence in a juvenile detention facility
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Probation or community service
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Extensive fines
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In some cases, sentence to adult jail
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The Juvenile
Justice SystemThe juvenile system has differences from adult criminal court. We can explain how the system handles young offenders so you know what to expect.
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Your Child’s
RightsYour child has rights that must be protected. Just like adults, minors have the right to remain silent & to have access to the best possible counsel.
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Your Child’s
FutureJuvenile charges do not mean they are somehow less severe. Your child deserves to live a life without the obstacles associated with a criminal record.
Juvenile Defense FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
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Questions
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My child was arrested. Will he/she be put in jail?
Answer
Because juvenile cases are handled differently, penalties typically will not involve jail. A juvenile may be faced with more serious penalties if the case is handled in adult court.
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What types of violations trigger a juvenile arrest?
Answer
Each state recognizes different types of violations as a juvenile offense. These can include things like curfew, truancy, liquor-related offenses, drug-related offenses, theft, and more.
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What age is considered to be juvenile?
Answer
Every state has different eligibility criterion, but most states recognize the maximum age for juvenile court as 18. Others can recognize 16 or 17 years, or as old as 19 years.
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What is the difference between juvenile and criminal court?
Answer
The juvenile system is much different than an adult criminal court, and therefore, the procedures are very different as well. Speak with an attorney to learn what to expect in your case.
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Possible Case Outcomes
Plea Agreement
If a case remains in juvenile court, the minor can enter a plea agreement. This is usually based on the condition that the juvenile attend counseling or other alternatives.
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Possible Case Outcomes
Judge Diversion
If a judge chooses to divert a case, the minor will need to complete a court-approved program. Failure to do so could force the court to reinstate the charges.
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Possible Case Outcomes
Adjudicatory Hearings
Also known as a juvenile trial, a judge will determine if the juvenile is delinquent (has violated criminal law). A judge will determine the penalties if the juvenile is ruled delinquent.
We Hear Your Concerns. You Aren’t Alone.
Let Us Help You Understand What to Expect
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Is my child
going to jail? -
How serious
is this? -
I can't afford
to pay the fines -
Is this going on my
criminal record? -
Can you help?
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They just made a mistake