Juvenile Sex Crimes

Respected Boston Juvenile Delinquency Lawyer Committed to Protecting Clients from Aggressive Prosecutors

Being accused of a sex crime is serious at any age—but when the accused is a minor, the stakes are especially high. At the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy, we understand how overwhelming it can be for families facing these allegations. As a Boston juvenile sex crimes lawyer with decades of experience, Attorney Murphy works to protect your child’s future, their reputation, and their rights throughout the court process.

What Is Considered a Sex Offense by a Juvenile in Massachusetts?

Juvenile sex crimes include any offense of a sexual nature allegedly committed by someone under 18. These cases are handled in the Massachusetts Juvenile Court system, which is separate from adult criminal court and focuses more on rehabilitation. That said, the consequences can still be life-altering.

Some of the most commonly charged juvenile sex crimes include:

• Indecent assault and battery
• Rape or aggravated rape
• Statutory rape
• Possession or distribution of child pornography
• Lewd and lascivious conduct
• Sexting or inappropriate image sharing
• Enticement of a minor

If the juvenile is close in age to the alleged victim, Massachusetts law provides for a “Romeo and Juliet” defense in some cases. However, many of these cases still move forward unless addressed early and aggressively.

How Are Juvenile Sex Crimes Prosecuted in Massachusetts?

The process typically begins with a report, investigation, and possibly an arrest. If your child is charged, their case will be heard in Juvenile Court, but prosecutors can request that the case be transferred to adult court for more serious charges like aggravated rape or repeat offenses.

Penalties vary depending on the charge and whether the child has prior offenses, but possible consequences include:

• Commitment to the Department of Youth Services (DYS)
• Mandatory counseling or treatment
• Sex offender registration (in rare cases, even for juveniles)
• Probation with strict conditions
• School suspension or expulsion
• Long-term damage to reputation and future opportunities

What Should You Do if Your Child Is Accused of a Sex Crime?

Do not wait to see what happens or assume the case will be handled leniently. Juvenile sex offense allegations require immediate legal attention. Anything your child says to police, school officials, or other adults can be used against them. Instead, contact a Boston juvenile sex crimes lawyer as soon as possible.

Attorney Murphy can:

• Represent your child during interviews and hearings
• Challenge the evidence or witness accounts
• Argue for diversion programs or treatment instead of confinement
• Push back on attempts to transfer the case to adult court
• Help protect your child’s privacy and reputation

Will My Child Have to Register as a Sex Offender?

In Massachusetts, juveniles are not automatically required to register as sex offenders, even if they are adjudicated delinquent for a sex offense. The Sex Offender Registry Board (SORB) reviews cases individually to decide whether registration is appropriate.

In most cases involving young offenders and first-time allegations, especially if there was no significant age difference or use of force, registration can be avoided. However, avoiding registration often depends on presenting a strong defense early in the process.

Can These Charges Be Sealed or Expunged?

Massachusetts offers some protections for juvenile records, but not all offenses are eligible for sealing or expungement. The best way to protect your child’s record is to avoid a formal finding of delinquency in the first place. That’s why working with a skilled defense attorney is so important.

Defending Your Child Against These Charges

Every case is different, but common defenses in juvenile sex crime cases may include:

• Consent between similarly aged minors
• False accusations stemming from peer conflict or pressure
• Mistaken identity
• Lack of intent or understanding (especially in sexting or image-sharing cases)
• Inadmissible or improperly obtained evidence

The emotional toll on your child and family can be immense. Attorney Patrick J. Murphy brings not only legal experience but also a compassionate, steady approach to guiding families through these extremely difficult situations.

Speak with a Boston Juvenile Sex Crimes Lawyer Today

Sex crime allegations against a minor can feel like the end of the road—but they don’t have to be. The Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy is here to protect your child’s rights and future. With years of experience as a Boston juvenile sex crimes lawyer, Attorney Murphy will work with you to understand the charges, build a strategic defense, and minimize the impact on your child’s life. Call (617) 367-0450 today for a confidential consultation.