San Antonio Juvenile Defense Attorney

Your Child Was Arrested in San Antonio.
The Next 48 Hours Will Shape Their Future.

When your son or daughter is taken into custody in Bexar County, the decisions made before that first detention hearing can determine whether this moment becomes a permanent mark on their record or a chapter that gets closed. As a board-certified San Antonio juvenile defense attorney, Jim Wheat has stood in Bexar County juvenile courtrooms for more than 30 years, first as a prosecutor, then as a judge, and now as the attorney fighting for your child.

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(210) 224-9300
WHAT YOUR FAMILY IS FACING

A Juvenile Arrest in San Antonio, Texas Carries Consequences Most Families Never Anticipate

The Texas juvenile justice system handles cases involving children between the ages of 10 and 16. Even when charges result in probation rather than detention, a juvenile record can surface on background checks for college applications, military enlistment, professional licensing, and employment for years to come.

If the case is handled incorrectly at the outset, opportunities for diversion, reduced charges, or record sealing may be lost permanently. What happens in the first 48 hours after your child's arrest can shape the entire outcome of the case.

Common juvenile charges Jim handles in Bexar County include: theft and shoplifting, assault and fighting (including school-related incidents), drug possession and paraphernalia charges, burglary and criminal trespass, sexual offenses and sexting-related charges, cases involving potential certification as an adult, and truancy and status offenses.

How Jim Defends Juvenile Cases

Bexar County Juvenile Courts Operate by Different Rules. Jim Has Spent 30 Years Learning Them.

Jim Wheat has practiced in Bexar County juvenile courts for more than three decades. He served as a prosecutor in these courtrooms, learning how the state builds its cases against minors. He later served as a judge at the 289th District Court, gaining direct insight into how judicial decisions are made in juvenile proceedings.

Challenge the Stop, Search, or Interrogation

Anything your child said to police before an attorney was present may be challenged. Jim evaluates whether constitutional rights were violated at every stage of the investigation.

Pursue Diversion and Deferred Prosecution

Where eligibility exists, Jim pursues diversion programs and deferred prosecution that keep a formal adjudication off your child's record entirely.

Fight Certification to Adult Court

For serious charges, the prosecution may attempt to certify your child as an adult. Jim challenges these motions aggressively because the consequences of adult court for a minor are life-altering.

Build a Record-Sealing Strategy from Day One

Most Texas juvenile cases are eligible for sealing or expunction. Jim builds a record-sealing plan into the defense from the beginning, not as an afterthought after the case closes.

Free Consultation(210) 224-9300
What Happens After an Arrest

Here Is Exactly What the Bexar County Juvenile Defense Process Looks Like

Most families have never been through the juvenile justice system. Knowing what to expect in each stage makes it possible to act quickly and protect your child's options.

1

Within the First Few Hours

Your child will be processed at the Bexar County Juvenile Justice Center. An intake officer will evaluate whether to release your child to your family or hold them for a detention hearing. Do not allow your child to make any statements to law enforcement without an attorney present. Call Jim Wheat at (210) 224-9300 immediately.

2

Within 48 Hours (Excluding Weekends)

If your child is detained, a detention hearing must be held. This hearing determines whether your child remains in custody or is released to your family pending the case. Jim will be present at this hearing to advocate for release and begin building the defense strategy.

3

Pretrial Conferences and Adjudication

Unlike adult court, juvenile cases are adjudicated rather than tried. A judge determines whether the allegations are true. Jim handles all pretrial motions, evidence challenges, and negotiations throughout this phase.

4

Disposition

If your child is found to have engaged in delinquent conduct, the court determines an appropriate disposition. This can range from probation and community service to commitment to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Jim fights for outcomes that prioritize rehabilitation and preserve your child's future opportunities.

Why Jim Wheat

The Only San Antonio Juvenile Defense Attorney Who Has Sat on Every Side of the Courtroom

Jim's background is not just a credential list. It is a direct advantage in every hearing, every motion, and every negotiation in your child's case.

Read more about Jim's background as a former judge and prosecutor.

Board Certified in Criminal Law

Fewer than 1% of Texas attorneys hold this credential. It requires demonstrated experience, peer review, and a rigorous written examination by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Former Bexar County Prosecutor

Jim built cases against juveniles for years before switching to the defense. He knows exactly how the state approaches your child's case and where those cases can be challenged.

Former Associate Judge, 289th District Court

As a judge, Jim learned what judges actually weigh when making decisions in juvenile proceedings. That perspective shapes every argument he makes.

Personally Handles Every Case

You will not be handed off to a junior associate or paralegal. When you hire Jim Wheat, Jim Wheat is in the courtroom, at the hearing, and on the phone when you call.

Record Sealing Built Into Every Defense

Jim treats record sealing as part of the juvenile defense strategy from day one. A properly handled case can mean your child moves forward without a permanent record.

30+ Years in Bexar County Courts

Jim has practiced in these specific courts, before these specific judges, for more than three decades. Local knowledge and courtroom relationships matter in juvenile cases.

Free Consultation(210) 224-9300

★★★★★

When my son was arrested I was terrified. Jim was calm, direct, and knew exactly what to do. The charges were reduced significantly. He gave our family our lives back.

Sandra M., San Antonio

FAQs

Common Questions When Navigating the Legal System

Answers to what most people want to know before calling. If you don't see your question here, call — consultations are free.

(210) 224-9300Jim Wheat - Board Certified Criminal Defense Attorney, San Antonio

What should I do if my child was just arrested in San Antonio?

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At what age can a child be tried as an adult in Texas?

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What is the difference between juvenile court and adult court in Texas?

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How quickly can I speak with someone?

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Does Jim Wheat personally handle juvenile cases?

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Will a juvenile charge affect my child's college applications?

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Free Consultation

Your Child's Future Is Worth a Phone Call.

When you contact Jim Wheat, here is exactly what happens:

1

You describe the situation

Jim listens to what happened, asks about the charges and circumstances of the arrest, and finds out where things stand with the Bexar County Juvenile Justice Center.

2

Jim explains your options

Jim explains what your child is facing, what the timeline looks like, and which defense strategies apply to your specific case.

3

You leave with clarity

You leave the conversation with a clear picture of your options. No obligation, no pressure, and no charge.

Schedule a Free Consultation
(210) 224-9300