The Sanders Firm, P.C.: Infancy Defense in Criminal Law
One criminal defense is that of infancy. Infancy is a defense that is used when someone involved in a criminal act is not considered responsible for their actions due to their age. The basic idea being that in order for someone to bear responsibility for a criminal act, that they must be able to ascertain and understand the consequences and that is not possible until they reach a certain age.
Understanding the Law
The infancy defense may be applied to many situations, understanding how this defense works and the manner in which it may be applied, requires the assistance of a legal professional who can help a defendant decide if such a defense is actually appropriate.
It is important to realize that a defense of infancy is not an excuse, but a legal defense that acknowledges that for certain crimes those who are on the cusp of adulthood are not yet adults and they do not fully understand the seriousness of their actions, especially in nonviolent crimes. In a way, this defense offers someone who is under the age of responsibility the opportunity to learn and perhaps benefit from his or her infraction.
Utilizing an Infancy Defense
When it is appropriate, The Sanders Firm, P.C. offers its criminal law clients the chance to use infancy as their defense. Often this is in cases where the defendant has been clearly connected to the crime and meets the age requirements for infancy under New York law. If you need legal representation after being charged with a criminal offense, call The Sanders Firm, P.C. at 844-839-8077. We will discuss your case with you, answering any questions you may have, and offer possible defenses. Depending on the age of the defendant and the situation, an infancy defense may be in order. Contact The Sanders Firm, P.C. today. We are your voice for justice.
