Kids will be kids, but if your kid does something unwise, there’s a possibility that they’ll face criminal consequences for their actions. It can be tough to know what steps to take after learning that your high school student has run afoul with the law, but trust us when we say there is a playbook for this situation. In today’s blog, we explore some of the do’s and don’ts when it comes to navigating a juvenile arrest.
What To Do After A Juvenile Arrest
We understand that every situation is unique, but there’s a good chance that at least some of this advice will pertain to your situation. Odds are that you’ll be able to avoid a worst case scenario if you follow some of these tips:
Do Go Get Your Child From Jail – Don’t just let your kid sit in a holding cell until a certain amount of time has passed. We understand that you may be angry and want them to endure some consequences for their actions, but now is not the time to lash out. Help secure their release so that you can talk about the next steps together.
Do Hire An Attorney – Certain criminal charges can stick with your child for years and negatively affect their ability to get into college or secure the job of their dreams. A lawyer will help navigate the situation and ensure that one wrong choice doesn’t hang with your child for life. Even if you don’t end up proceeding with legal council, it’s wise to take an initial meeting to go over the basics of your child’s case.
Do Set New Expectations – It’s imperative that you and your child get on the same page when it comes to new rules and expectations, and what will happen if they fail to follow these new rules. Help your child understand the gravity of their choices, how it affects others and what they can do in the future to make better choices.
Do Be An Ally – We understand that you may be mad or upset with their choices, but don’t just hang them out to dry. Make sure they know that you are in their corner, because the juvenile criminal court process can be a very isolating experience. Show them you won’t turn away from them when things get tough.
Don’ts
Conversely, here are some things you’ll want to avoid doing during the course of your child’s juvenile matter.
Don’t Assume It’s No Big Deal – Don’t just brush off a drug charge or an underage DUI as a normal occurrence during adolescence. As we mentioned above, juvenile charges can have significant ramifications for your child life now and in the future, so make sure you don’t overlook how important it is to contest the charges appropriately in court.
Don’t Leave It Up To Chance – Don’t just go into court hoping that the judge will go easy on your child. As we mentioned above, a lawyer will help your child fight the charges and avoid a worst case scenario, but if you choose not to have a lawyer, make sure that your child has plan. Also, make sure that they are ready to explain their situation in court, as you won’t be able to do all the talking for them.
Don’t Let It Affect The Rest Of Their Life – As we mentioned at the start of this blog, we all make mistakes. Don’t let one bad decision define your child. Help them learn to make better choices in the future so that they can come out of this experience a better person. Remind them that they are more than just one decision, and they have a lifetime to prove the type of person they really are.
If you or your child needs help overcoming criminal charges, reach out to Avery and the team at Appelman Law Firm today at (952) 224-2277.
