Juvenile cases
A young person with a lot to protect
When a teenager is arrested, the parents are the ones who feel it first. We explain the process to both of you.
Juvenile court is not adult court, and a good outcome often means a teenager finishes school and starts adult life with a clean record. We defend teenagers in juvenile court, and in the rare case where one may be tried as an adult, we start preparing for that on the first day. We explain each step to the parents in plain words, in English or Spanish.
School
We look at suspensions, school police reports and what to say to the school.
The family
Parents are part of the process, and we speak to them as well as to the teenager.
The record
We look ahead to sealing a juvenile record so it does not follow a young person.
Matters we handle
Referrals to juvenile court
Drug and alcohol offenses
Fights and assault at or near school
Theft and vandalism
Detention hearings
Cases that could move to adult court
How a case grows
How a juvenile case grows
A young person has more to protect and more time to protect it, so we plan beyond the court date.
Step 1: Roots
We meet the family, read the referral and the school papers, and learn who has already spoken to your child and what was said.
Step 2: Trunk
We find witnesses, ask for video and learn what the other side can really prove, then tell you what we think the case is worth.
Step 3: Branches
We talk with the prosecutor and the probation department about a program, a smaller charge or a hearing, always with your child included in decisions.
Step 4: Shade
When it ends, we talk about school, activities and sealing the record, so one bad night does not decide the next ten years.
For parents
What you can do tonight
Your child may be scared, and so are you. These steps help both of you.
Ask before they answer
Young people can ask for a parent and a lawyer before answering questions. Say it to the officer, calmly.
Keep the papers
Court notices, release forms and school letters all have dates. Keep every one and bring them to us.
Talk about it once, calmly
Let your child tell it to us first. Retelling it to family and friends can change the story.
Tell the school only what you must
We help you decide what to share with the school, and protect your child's place there.
Questions
What parents ask first
Can my child be questioned without me?
Rules differ by situation, so call us right away. Until you have, ask that your child not answer questions without a parent and a lawyer.
Will this follow my child?
Often a juvenile record can be limited or sealed, and we plan for that. We will tell you what is possible for your child.
Who is our client, the child or the parent?
The young person is our client. We keep parents informed and involved, and we explain who decides what at each step.
Was your child arrested?
Call us, in English or Spanish. We'll explain what comes next, for you and for them.