Best Juvenile Law Lawyers in Shizuoka

About Juvenile Law in Shizuoka, Japan

Juvenile law in Japan is designed to address two goals - rehabilitation of young people who commit offenses and protection of children and adolescents who need help. National laws such as the Juvenile Act and the Child Welfare Act set the basic rules, while local institutions in Shizuoka implement procedures and support. Cases involving juveniles are usually handled by the Family Court system rather than ordinary criminal courts, and the emphasis is typically on guidance and education rather than punishment. While national law governs substance, local prosecutors, police juvenile divisions, family courts and welfare agencies in Shizuoka manage intake, assessment and the measures that follow.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

A lawyer can help at several points in juvenile matters. If a young person is detained by police, charged by a prosecutor or brought before Family Court, a lawyer can protect legal rights during questioning and hearings. Lawyers advise families about options - for example, whether a case is likely to be handled by Family Court with protective measures or referred for criminal prosecution. They can prepare submissions to court, represent the juvenile at hearings, negotiate with prosecutors, and help arrange social services or rehabilitation plans. Lawyers also help with related civil matters such as compensation claims, school discipline disputes, and parental legal questions.

Local Laws Overview

Key local aspects in Shizuoka reflect how national juvenile law is applied on the ground. The Family Court and its juvenile division take the lead on non-criminal responses, offering protective measures such as supervision by probation officers, guidance programs, and placement in juvenile training facilities when needed. The police juvenile division and the public prosecutor's office handle investigations and decisions on whether to refer a case to Family Court or to pursue prosecution. Child consultation centers and municipal welfare offices address welfare-related cases involving abuse, neglect or need for care. Confidentiality rules generally limit public access to juvenile records, but administrative and legal agencies may access files for lawful purposes. Local procedures and available support programs can vary by municipality, so local offices in Shizuoka prefecture are important contact points.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age range for juvenile cases in Japan?

Traditionally, the Juvenile Act covers persons under 20 years of age for purposes of juvenile proceedings. Note that Japan lowered the age of majority to 18 in 2022, but juvenile procedures and definitions remain based on the Juvenile Act. Because rules and practice can change and may be applied differently depending on the case, consult a local lawyer or the Family Court to confirm how age is treated in your situation.

Will a juvenile record be public?

Juvenile proceedings are generally confidential and juvenile records are not open to the general public. That confidentiality is meant to protect rehabilitation prospects. However, relevant authorities and certain agencies can access records for legal or administrative reasons. If you are concerned about privacy or future consequences, speak with a lawyer about sealing or limiting disclosure and about how records are used in practice.

Can a juvenile be tried as an adult?

Most cases involving juveniles are dealt with by Family Court with an emphasis on protection and rehabilitation. For very serious offenses or where the prosecutor determines public prosecution is necessary, a case can be referred for criminal prosecution. The decision to prosecute involves prosecutorial discretion and case-specific factors, including the juvenile's age, the seriousness of the offense, and prior history. A lawyer can explain the likely path and argue for Family Court handling where appropriate.

What happens immediately after a juvenile is arrested?

If police detain a juvenile, parents or guardians should be notified and the juvenile has the right to consult a lawyer. Police may conduct initial investigation and can refer the case to the family court or to the public prosecutor. Family Court procedures focus on assessment and protective measures, while prosecution may lead to criminal charges. Early legal advice is important to protect rights and to influence how the case proceeds.

Are parents automatically legally responsible for a juvenile's wrongdoing?

Parents are not automatically criminally liable simply because their child committed an offense. However, parents may face civil liability for damages caused by their child if negligence can be shown. In welfare cases, authorities may investigate parenting conditions and can recommend or require interventions under child welfare laws. If there is an allegation of neglect or abuse, separate administrative or criminal issues may arise for the parent.

What kinds of measures can Family Court order?

Family Court can impose non-punitive measures aimed at rehabilitation, such as guidance and supervision, orders for participation in counseling or education programs, probation supervised by probation officers, and placement in a juvenile training school in more serious cases. The court may also coordinate with welfare agencies for family support and social services. The goal is to prevent reoffending and to support the juvenile's development.

Do juveniles need a lawyer in Family Court?

While Family Court proceedings are focused on welfare, a lawyer is still very helpful. Lawyers protect legal interests, explain the meaning of measures, help present mitigating information about the juvenile and family, and negotiate with authorities on rehabilitation plans. For serious matters or where the juvenile faces possible criminal referral, legal representation is strongly recommended.

How does involvement with juvenile authorities affect schooling and future work?

Because proceedings are confidential, many juvenile cases do not become public records that affect schooling or employment. However, practical consequences can occur, for example through school disciplinary measures or when employers ask about past conduct. A lawyer can help minimize collateral impact by advising on privacy protections, advocating to institutions, and explaining how to address the issue in future applications.

Can juvenile records be expunged or sealed?

Procedures for disclosure and retention of juvenile records differ from ordinary criminal records and are intended to protect the juvenile. There is no simple private expungement process like in some other jurisdictions, but confidentiality rules limit disclosure and courts and authorities may restrict access. A local lawyer can explain what records exist, who can see them, and what steps can be taken to limit disclosure in specific circumstances.

How do I find a qualified juvenile law lawyer in Shizuoka?

Look for lawyers or law firms with experience in family law, juvenile law, criminal defense for minors, or child welfare cases. The local bar association can often provide a referral service. Ask about specific experience with Family Court juvenile procedures, negotiation with prosecutors, and work with welfare agencies. Many lawyers offer initial consultation to explain options and likely outcomes, so use that meeting to assess fit and strategy.

Additional Resources

Family Court - the Family Court and its juvenile division handle non-criminal juvenile matters and can explain procedures and protective measures available locally.

Public Prosecutors Office - handles criminal referrals and can clarify whether a case is likely to be prosecuted.

Police Juvenile Division - local police juvenile units conduct investigations and can refer cases to Family Court or prosecutors.

Child Consultation Centers and Municipal Welfare Offices - these agencies handle child welfare concerns, provide counseling, and arrange protective services when needed.

Probation Office and Juvenile Probation Officers - participate in supervision and rehabilitation plans ordered by Family Court.

Shizuoka Bar Association - a source for lawyer referrals and legal consultation options in the prefecture.

Local non-governmental organizations and youth support centers - local NGOs and youth support services may offer counseling, mentoring and programs for rehabilitation and community reintegration.

Next Steps

If you or a family member faces a juvenile matter in Shizuoka, take these practical steps -

- Preserve calm and gather information: record names, dates and what happened. If police are involved, ask about rights and procedures. - Seek immediate legal advice: contact a lawyer experienced in juvenile and family court matters as soon as possible. Early counsel can affect detention, questioning and case direction. - Notify family supports: parents or guardians should be informed and involved in planning and support. - Contact relevant local agencies: if the matter involves welfare, contact the child consultation center or municipal welfare office to understand support options. - Prepare documentation: school records, medical or psychological reports, and character references can help in Family Court assessments. - Follow rehabilitation plans and court orders: compliance with counseling, supervision and educational programs helps the juvenile's prospects and can influence court outcomes.

If you are unsure where to start, request a referral from the local bar association or contact a family law firm in Shizuoka for an initial consultation to discuss your situation confidentially and map out the best next steps.