Since 1984, Attorney Samms has been intimately involved in representing juveniles who have been accused of every crime imaginable. For Attorney Samms representing juveniles is different in the sense that the counselor role becomes more paramount than in any other type of litigation. Children need legal advice but they also need a realistic view of the repercussions of their actions and how that relates to their future. Attorney Samms believes that every child can be saved and that in many instances rehabilitation should be the primary focus and not punishment. Attorney Samms fights hard for the rights of children to be given second and sometimes third and fourth chances with the juvenile system and vigorously opposes juveniles being tried in adult court. The same type of trial preparation that Attorney Samms engages in for adult offenses in federal or state court will be applied to juvenile offenses as well.
Attorney Samms understands that in juvenile cases time is of the essence. Trial dates are set within weeks and there is no time for delay or procrastination. Attorney Samms vigorously begins preparation of a juvenile defense as soon as the firm is retained. The child’s background is developed through teachers, pastors, and extracurricular activities that show leadership, teamwork, and a positive contribution to society. Attorney Samms works diligently to bring each child to life for the court and to highlight individual characteristics of each child client.
All of the background information is being done simultaneously with the preparation of an aggressive defense. Attorney Samms has intimate knowledge of the inner workings of the juvenile system as well as the programs available for children who demonstrate a need for rehabilitation.
