Being arrested can be a scary and traumatic experience for any child, and it’s important for parents to be as patient and understanding as possible. Supporting your child through the scary reality of the legal process can improve the trust your child has in you, which can strengthen your relationship. Here’s how you can help your child who’s been arrested.
Look for the Right Lawyer
Instead of a typical defense attorney, you’ll need to find one who specializes in juvenile defense. Juvenile defense attorneys are trained to navigate the unique legal process designed for children, which is usually much more nuanced and complicated than the system designed for adults. A trustworthy juvenile defense attorney is your child’s best bet at leaving the trial with a clean record, while an attorney with little experience can do the opposite. The right attorney will also be able to explain everything to your child in terms they can understand.
Remind Your Child to Remain Silent
Even if you know your child is already aware of their right to remain silent, it’s still a good idea to remind them. Your child is under no obligation to give the police any information without an attorney there to help. An attorney’s job is to advise the defendant throughout the legal process, which includes any police interactions. Remind your child that answering police questions without a lawyer can have serious consequences on your trial and the outcome of your case. Tell your child to be respectful and cooperative to the police at all times, but to not answer any questions until an attorney can help.
Listen to Your Child’s Probation Officer
After your child is detained, a probation officer will be assigned to decide what happens next. The first court hearing should happen within two days of being detained, and afterwards the probation officer will write a report recommending a course of action. Depending on your child’s record, health, behavior, and other factors, the probation officer will either recommend release, house arrest, or further detainment of your child. If your child is released, they’ll have to meet the requirements of the probation officer. This includes good school attendance, good grades, and no criminal activity.
Give the Court any Important Information
The court won’t be able to give your child’s case a fair look unless you do everything you can to paint an accurate picture of your child. Give the court proof of any mental illnesses or learning disabilities your child has, since this will change the way your child’s case is handled. You could also try collecting character letters from family members and teachers about who your child really is. These letters are always reviewed by the court, and they could entirely change the outcome of your child’s trial.
Bail Family Members out Fast with Delta Bail Bonds
If your family member has been arrested, Delta Bail Bonds can help. We’re available 24/7 to post bail anywhere in the country, and we work hard to take care of your case as soon as possible. Our experienced bail bondsmen can help you navigate the complicated legal process with ease, so call or visit our website today!