When your child is facing juvenile charges, the entire world could feel like falling over your head. Your heart will be racing, and your mind will be brimming with questions with hundreds of worst-case scenarios running through it. In such situations, having a juvenile defense attorney by your side is the only way to get your child’s life back on track.
Remember that youth, even more than adults, need access to competent counsel. Teens lack the life experiences and confidence to handle high-pressure situations. Without guidance, they might waive their rights during questioning or admit to a crime they didn’t commit.
One thing is clear: you need a skilled lawyer by your side. But you might be wondering: what rights does my child have during arrest and questioning? In what situations can a lawyer help us? And how do I hire a juvenile attorney? Let’s break it down.
Which Rights Do All Juveniles Have?
Before reaching out to a juvenile defense attorney, you must be aware of your child’s rights. Many juvenile cases become weak in the early stages, such as during arrest and questioning, because neither the teen nor the parent are aware of legal procedures.
Depending on the U.S. state of residence, your child has the following rights when arrested:
Right to Remain Silent
Your teen is not obligated by law to answer any questions. Anything they say can and will be used against them in the court of law. Unfortunately, many teens don’t understand the weight of consequences. Teach your child to refuse to answer any questions without an attorney present.
Right to Legal Representation
In all U.S. states, the law mandates legal counsel for juveniles in court proceedings. Having an attorney present in the interrogation room isn’t just a formality—it’s vital to ensure your child’s side of the story is heard so they are not wrongfully convicted.
With an attorney present, law enforcement won’t be able to coerce your teen into answering questions or making statements. A juvenile attorney will also be aware of specific state laws to help protect your teen’s welfare. If you’re living in Cleveland, reach out to some of the best Cleveland juvenile defense attorneys to build a strong defense, especially if charges are filed.
Right to be Aware of the Charges
In some cases, law enforcement might hold back information from your teen. Remember that you and your teen have the right to be aware of all the specific charges.
These rights are set in place to protect your child’s best interests. If they’ve been violated, a juvenile defense attorney will bring the violation to court to highlight bias and unfairness.
When You Should Hire a Juvenile Defense Attorney
When a person under 18 breaks the law, whether a misdemeanor or felony crime, they are charged with juvenile delinquency. You should hire a juvenile defense attorney as soon as your child is brought for questioning. They can handle a wide range of offenses, including:
- School discipline charges
- Minor misdemeanor charges, such as theft, vandalism, or underage drinking
- Serious crime charges, such as assault or battery
- Sex crimes
- Electronic offenses, such as cybercrimes
- Drug possession
- Disorderly conduct
Why Hire a Juvenile Defense Attorney
As mentioned earlier, in most U.S. states, legal counsel is mandated for juvenile charges. Even if it’s not mandated, it is critical to hire a defense attorney. Your child is facing the full strength of law enforcement, which can be detrimental to their personal and academic growth.
Moreover, juvenile charges can have a negative effect on the mental well-being of your teen. They might suffer from anxiety, PTSD, and even substance abuse disorders. A competent defense attorney or firm will prioritize your child’s future and fight the charges.
If your teen is found guilty, a defense attorney will work to avoid detention, placement, or adult certification. They will advocate for alternative solutions to detention, such as diversion programs and community service. Juvenile defense attorneys aim to reduce the severity of the charges.
Many parents believe that they can defend their teens in court. This is a misconception and can lead to devastating consequences for your teen. In most U.S. states, parents can’t defend their child in juvenile court. Having a certified defense attorney by your side is the only way to secure your child’s future.
What to Consider When Hiring a Juvenile Defense Attorney
If you’ve decided to hire a juvenile defense attorney but don’t know what to look for, consider the following factors:
Track Record
Assess the success rate of your shortlisted attorneys. While past performance doesn’t guarantee future results, an attorney’s success rate can provide some insight into their skills.
Communication Skills
Juvenile cases can take weeks, even months, to resolve. Choose an attorney who can clearly explain legal procedures to you and your child. Make sure they are available by phone or email to answer your questions and resolve doubts.
Compassion and Empathy
Legal matters can be stressful, especially when your child’s entire future is resting upon court orders. Make sure your attorney is approachable and empathetic. An attorney who genuinely cares about your child’s well-being will do everything in their power to ensure a fair conviction.
Familiarity with Case Type
Some juvenile attorneys also specialize in a couple of case types, such as sex crimes, cybercrimes, or vandalism. Make sure your attorney has ample experience representing clients with charges similar to your case. This will ensure peace of mind and increase the chances of a favorable outcome.
Caseload
Make sure the attorney has enough time on their schedule to give their full attention to your child’s case. Ask the attorney about their caseload and inquire about their strategy for handling multiple cases simultaneously.
Reputation
Look for an attorney with a good reputation. You can check reviews on their website or third-party rating sites.
Costs and Fees
Juvenile defense attorneys are expensive; therefore, inquire about the fees and upfront costs of your chosen attorney beforehand. Many law firms offer payment plans to ensure affordable legal solutions for all. This will help you avoid unfortunate surprises in the future.
A juvenile charge isn’t the end of your child’s academic or professional journey. By working with a juvenile defense attorney, you can protect their rights and safeguard their future.
