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As a parent, it can be one of the most difficult and frightening experiences to have your teenager arrested. It’s important to understand what to expect if your teenager is arrested and what you can do to support them proactively.
What to Expect if Your Teenager is Arrested
The first thing you need to understand is that the legal process for a juvenile is different than that of an adult. Depending on the severity of the crime and the state where the crime was committed, your teenager may be tried in either a juvenile or criminal court. In the event that your teenager is arrested, they will be taken to a juvenile detention center and booked. They may be held in custody until they appear before a judge. Depending on the severity of the crime, they may be released to you on probation or held in custody until their court date. The court will then decide if your teenager should be charged as a juvenile or an adult.
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- California Juvenile Court: How it Works
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- Can You Expunge a Juvenile Record in California?
What to do Immediately
Once your teenager has been arrested, it’s important to take action immediately. The first thing you should do is hire a defense attorney who specializes in juvenile law. An experienced attorney will be able to provide you with advice and guidance throughout the legal process.
It’s also important to seek early intervention. Depending on the state where the crime was committed, there may be programs available to help your teenager. These programs may include counseling, mentoring, and substance abuse treatment.
How to Proactively Support Your Teenager
Once your teenager has been arrested, it’s important to understand the juvenile court system. It’s important to understand the different types of charges and the possible consequences. By understanding the system, you can be better prepared to support your teenager through the process.
It’s also important to build a support system. This system may include family, friends, teachers, and counselors who can provide emotional and practical support. It’s also important to ensure that your teenager has access to all the resources they need, such as legal advice and mental health support.
Finally, it’s important to understand your teenager’s rights. Depending on the state where the crime was committed, your teenager may have certain rights that need to be protected. It’s important to understand these rights and to ensure that your teenager is treated fairly throughout the process.
How to Talk to Your Teenager About What Happened
Once your teenager has been arrested, it’s important to have an honest and open conversation. It’s important to be understanding and non-judgmental. It’s also important to be honest about the consequences of their actions and to discuss the potential outcomes of their case.
It’s also important to emphasize that you are there to support them. Talk to your teenager about the resources that are available to them and offer your help. Let your teenager know that you are there to provide emotional and practical support.
Conclusion
Having your teenager arrested can be a difficult and frightening experience. It’s important to understand the legal process and to take action immediately. It’s also important to understand the juvenile court system and to build a support system for your teenager. Finally, it’s important to have an honest and open conversation with your teenager about what happened. By understanding the process and taking proactive steps, you can help your teenager through this difficult time.
Need a Lawyer?
If your teenager has been arrested, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Need an Attorney? CALL NOW: 213-932-8922
Yuliya Kelmansky is an Expert Attorney who has over 15 years of practice defending a variety of cases.
