Juvenile Drug Crimes 

When a young person is accused of a drug offense in Missouri, the consequences reach far beyond the courtroom. Families often feel overwhelmed as they face questions about school suspension, possible detention, and whether this episode will alter their child’s opportunities in the years ahead. For many parents, the worry is not only about the legal case but about the child’s well being, peers, and future path.

Scrivner Law Firm, led by criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor Dayrell Scrivner, represents juveniles throughout Taney, Stone, and Christian Counties who are facing drug related allegations. With decades of legal experience, including approximately twenty years in a prosecutorial role, attorney Scrivner understands both how these cases are built and how they can be resolved in ways that protect a child’s life trajectory. He draws on that experience to help families navigate Missouri’s juvenile system with confidence and clarity.

How Missouri Law Treats Juvenile Drug Offenses

Juvenile drug cases in Missouri can involve anything from simple possession to distribution level allegations. While the underlying offenses are contained in Missouri’s criminal statutes, particularly Chapters 195 and 579 of the Revised Statutes, cases involving minors are typically handled in the juvenile division rather than adult criminal court. That distinction affects everything from the terminology used in court to the range of dispositional options available.

Under Missouri law, the juvenile court has jurisdiction over individuals under eighteen who are accused of violating state law unless the case qualifies for certification to adult court. This means that a twelve year old experimenting with marijuana and a seventeen year old accused of selling controlled substances may both fall within the juvenile system, but the court’s response will differ significantly based on the nature of the offense and the child’s circumstances.

Common Types of Juvenile Drug Allegations

Juvenile drug cases can include a wide range of conduct. The most common allegations include:

• Possession of controlled substances. This may involve marijuana, prescription medications without authorization, or substances listed in Missouri’s schedules of controlled drugs.
  
• Possession of drug paraphernalia. Items such as pipes, rolling papers, vape cartridges containing THC, digital scales, or baggies may be charged if prosecutors believe they were used for drug consumption or distribution.
  
• Distribution or intent to distribute. Allegations of selling or attempting to sell controlled substances are treated far more seriously and can trigger discussions about certification to adult court.
  
• School related drug offenses. Many juvenile drug cases arise from incidents on school property, during extracurricular activities, or involving school staff.

The specific charge depends on the substance involved, the quantity, the location of the alleged conduct, and whether the youth has any prior history with juvenile services.

Missouri Controlled Substance Laws That Apply To Juveniles

Drug crimes in Missouri fall primarily under RSMo Chapter 579. Among the most relevant statutes are:

• RSMo 579.015 (Possession of a Controlled Substance). This statute makes it unlawful to knowingly possess a controlled substance unless obtained through a valid prescription.
  
• RSMo 579.055 (Possession of Drug Paraphernalia). This covers a wide array of items used for preparing, consuming, or distributing controlled substances.
  
• RSMo 579.020 and 579.055 (Delivery or Possession With Intent To Deliver). Distribution level offenses can apply when law enforcement believes the youth intended to sell or transfer controlled substances to others.
  
• RSMo 579.005 (Definitions). This section provides specific definitions of terms used in Missouri’s drug laws, including controlled substances, deliver, and possession.

While these statutes govern the underlying offenses, the juvenile court system applies a different set of procedures and goals when dealing with minors.

The Juvenile Court Framework For Drug Cases

Missouri’s juvenile justice system prioritizes rehabilitation, accountability, and long term protection of minors. Guided by Chapter 211 of the Revised Statutes, juvenile courts focus on care and treatment rather than harsh punishment. However, drug cases are taken seriously, especially when they involve distribution, repeat behavior, or incidents on school grounds.

Initial Investigation And Referral

Many juvenile drug cases begin when school administrators or law enforcement discover substances during a search, traffic stop, or wellness check. Once officers determine the youth involved is underage, the matter is referred to a juvenile officer who evaluates the case.

The juvenile officer’s review typically includes:

• Background history and prior referrals.
  
• The child’s school performance and attendance.
  
• Statements from students, teachers, or witnesses.
  
• The substance involved and whether lab testing is required.
  
• Any safety concerns related to the home environment.

After this review, the juvenile officer may choose to file a formal petition, recommend diversion, or decline to proceed.

Detention Decisions

If a juvenile is taken into custody, a juvenile officer or judge must quickly decide whether the child should stay in detention or be released to a parent or guardian. In drug cases, detention is less common unless the alleged conduct involves distribution, a large quantity of substances, or concerns about the youth’s safety.

Filing The Petition

A formal petition outlines the alleged drug offense and brings the case before the juvenile court. The youth is referred to as a respondent, and the case proceeds through hearings that address detention, admission or denial of allegations, evidence disclosures, and eventually adjudication and disposition.

Adjudication

At an adjudication hearing, the judge determines whether the allegations have been proven based on the evidence presented. Unlike adult criminal trials, juvenile adjudications do not involve juries. The judge alone determines the outcome.

When Juvenile Drug Cases Can Be Certified To Adult Court

The possibility of certification to adult court is one of the most concerning issues for families, though it is generally reserved for the most serious drug offenses. Under section 211.071, a child between fourteen and eighteen may be transferred to adult court if the conduct would constitute a felony and if the court believes adult prosecution is necessary to protect the community.

This means distribution or large scale possession with intent to distribute controlled substances may trigger a certification hearing, especially if firearms, weapons, or organized activity is involved.

Factors Considered In A Certification Hearing

The court evaluates several criteria during a certification hearing, including:

• The seriousness of the drug offense.
  
• Whether the conduct involved violence, threats, or gang activity.
  
• The child’s age, maturity, and emotional development.
  
• The youth’s prior involvement with the juvenile system.
  
• The availability and effectiveness of rehabilitative services in the juvenile system.

Certification is rare in simple possession cases but is a genuine risk in distribution allegations, particularly those involving Schedule I or II substances.

Defenses And Strategies In Juvenile Drug Cases

Every drug case is unique, and effective representation requires a tailored approach. Scrivner Law Firm examines the full context surrounding the allegations, including whether the juvenile’s rights were respected and whether the evidence is reliable.

Unlawful Searches And Seizures

Many juvenile drug cases originate from school searches, vehicle stops, or searches of backpacks and lockers. While schools have broader authority to search students, they still must follow legal standards, and police officers are bound by constitutional requirements.

Key issues may include:

• Whether the search was justified.
  
• Whether school staff exceeded their authority.
  
• Whether law enforcement improperly questioned the youth.
  
• Whether consent was freely and knowingly given.

Evidence obtained unlawfully can often be suppressed.

Actual Versus Constructive Possession

In group settings, such as a car with multiple teens or a shared locker, determining who actually possessed the drugs can be difficult. Prosecutors must prove that the youth knew of the substance and intended to exercise control over it. Cases involving shared spaces often present strong defenses.

Intent To Distribute

Intent to distribute is often inferred from circumstantial evidence such as packaging materials, scales, communications, or the quantity of the substance. A skilled attorney can challenge whether these items truly indicate distribution or simply reflect common teenage behavior or misunderstandings.

Substance Testing And Chain Of Custody

The prosecution generally must prove that the substance involved is a controlled substance. In some cases, field tests are inaccurate or mishandled. An attorney may question testing procedures, lab results, or how evidence was stored and documented.

Emphasizing Rehabilitation

Courts are more receptive to treatment focused solutions when families show proactive engagement. Voluntary counseling, substance abuse assessments, or academic interventions can help the court view the youth as someone taking responsibility and committed to positive change.

Scrivner Law Firm’s Approach To Juvenile Drug Cases

Scrivner Law Firm emphasizes a comprehensive, family centered approach to juvenile defense. Drug allegations often reflect more than a legal issue. They may signal peer pressure, emotional struggles, experimentation, or gaps in supervision. The firm takes the time to understand the young person’s situation, goals, strengths, and challenges.

Key aspects of the firm’s representation include:

• Thorough investigation of the facts and legality of the search.
  
• Early negotiation with the juvenile officer to explore diversion and treatment based resolutions.
  
• Strategic advocacy during detention, adjudication, and disposition proceedings.
  
• Ongoing communication with parents and guardians.
  
• Long term planning to protect the youth’s record and opportunities.

Attorney Dayrell Scrivner’s experience as a prosecutor provides valuable insight into how drug cases are evaluated by the state, what factors matter most, and how to present compelling arguments for rehabilitation oriented outcomes.

What Parents Should Do If Their Child Faces Drug Allegations

Parents play a crucial role in the outcome of a juvenile drug case. Taking prompt, informed action helps protect the child legally, academically, and emotionally.

The most important initial steps include:

• Do not allow your child to answer questions from law enforcement or school officials without legal guidance.
  
• Gather any documents or communications from school administrators.
  
• Secure any evidence, such as text messages or photographs, that may be relevant.
  
• Maintain open communication with your attorney and follow all recommendations.

Supportive parental involvement often helps the court view the child more favorably and can increase the likelihood of diversion or reduced consequences.

Speak With A Missouri Juvenile Drug Crimes Attorney

A juvenile drug case does not have to define a young person’s future. With the right legal guidance, many youths are able to complete treatment, avoid long term records, and regain their footing academically and socially.

Scrivner Law Firm represents juveniles and families in drug related cases throughout Taney, Stone, and Christian Counties. The firm is committed to safeguarding your child’s rights, protecting their record, and helping them move forward with the tools they need to succeed.

To discuss your child’s situation, you can contact Scrivner Law Firm by phone or through the contact form on the firm’s website. Early legal assistance can make a meaningful difference in both the immediate case and your family’s long term peace of mind.