⚖️ Criminal Defense• Published: September 2, 2026

Juvenile Delinquency Defense in California: W&I 602 & Transfer Hearings

Legal Review: State Bar of California Defense Counsel Directorate • Southern California Trial Bar

California juvenile court operates under a rehabilitation mandate rather than punitive retribution, providing defense opportunities to resolve matters through informal diversion.

1. W&I 786 Automatic Record Sealing

👶 Youth Record Sealing

Under Welfare & Institutions Code § 786, when a juvenile successfully completes probation, the court must automatically dismiss the petition and seal all juvenile court, arrest, and law enforcement records.

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Authored by Los Angeles Criminal Defense & DUI Trial Practice

Our trial team represents clients facing felony, misdemeanor, and DUI allegations throughout Los Angeles County and Southern California. We focus on constitutional suppression motions (PC 1538.5), DMV APS hearings, bail relief, and trial litigation.