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Criminal Defense » Juvenile Defense
If your child has been accused of a crime, you are not just dealing with a court date—you are protecting their future. At DiSalvo Law, we defend juveniles facing delinquency petitions in Fresno and across California’s Central Valley, focusing on smart solutions that minimize long-term consequences.
When a young person is accused of a crime, the stakes involve far more than a single court date. A juvenile record can affect school, work, housing, and opportunities for years to come. At DiSalvo Law, we represent juveniles and their families in Fresno and throughout the Central Valley, focusing on protecting the child’s future as much as the immediate case.
We work closely with parents or guardians to explain the process, answer questions, and make sure the young person understands what is happening and what choices are being made on their behalf.
We handle a wide range of juvenile delinquency matters, including:
Every juvenile case is different. We take time to understand the child’s background, school issues, mental health concerns, and family situation so we can advocate for outcomes focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Juvenile court operates differently than adult criminal court. Key differences include:
Understanding how the juvenile system works—and what options exist for diversion, informal supervision, or sealing records—can make a major difference in a young person’s life.
Acting quickly is essential in juvenile cases. Early decisions about statements to school officials, probation officers, or police can shape the entire case. In some situations, it may be possible to resolve matters through informal agreements before a formal petition is even filed.
We step in early to protect the child’s rights, manage communication with authorities, and work toward outcomes that keep education and family stability at the center.
Our juvenile defense approach is hands-on and family-centered:
• Meet with the child and family to understand what really happened
• Review police reports, school records, and witness statements
• Explore diversion, informal supervision, and counseling options
• Challenge weak or exaggerated allegations through negotiation and hearings
• Advocate for sealing records and minimizing long-term harm
We aim to protect both the child’s legal interests and their future opportunities, inside and outside the courtroom.
Attorney Mario DiSalvo has represented clients in serious criminal cases for nearly three decades. His background in trial work and post-conviction litigation gives him insight into how local courts operate and what it takes to protect clients when everything is on the line.
Learn more about our broader criminal defense practice »
We represent juveniles facing delinquency petitions in courts across Fresno and the Central Valley, including:
For an overview of our work in youth and adult cases, visit our Criminal Defense hub.
We want to know about your case. Fill out the information below to receive a response within 24 hours.
DiSalvo Law
5151 N Palm Ave
Suite 100
Fresno, CA 93704
(559) 442-1552
Disclaimer: Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship. The information you provide is used solely to review your inquiry, perform conflict checks, and respond to your request. We do not sell or share your information. Representation is only established after a signed agreement.
What is a juvenile delinquency case?
A juvenile delinquency case is a proceeding in which the court decides whether a minor committed an act that would be a crime if committed by an adult, and what consequences or services should follow.
Will a juvenile record follow my child into adulthood?
Some juvenile records can be sealed, but not all. Whether a record can be sealed depends on the type of offense and the outcome of the case.
Can my child be tried as an adult?
In certain serious cases, prosecutors may seek to transfer a juvenile to adult court. Early, skilled representation is crucial in resisting that transfer.
Do parents need to attend juvenile court hearings?
Yes. Parents or guardians are usually required to appear in court with the minor and play an important role in the process.
Does my child need a lawyer for a juvenile case?
Absolutely. Even when the system is supposed to be rehabilitative, the consequences of a juvenile finding can be serious and long-lasting. A lawyer can help protect your child’s rights and future.
If your child is under investigation or has already received notice of a juvenile delinquency petition, do not wait to get help. Contact DiSalvo Law today for a confidential consultation about your child’s rights, options, and next steps.
