Having a child in trouble is a traumatic experience for any parent. Following these steps can help you get through this tough time.
1. Don’t panic! Having a child accused of a crime is an emotionally traumatic event and in order to prevent being overwhelmed by “The System” it is important to remain calm. This can be a very scary time full of anger and confusion and you must resist the urge to place blame.
2. Determine whether or not bail has been set. Don’t insist on knowing the details right away, at this point your child will probably be reluctant to tell you anyway. If no bail has been set, find out when bail will be set.
3. Encourage your child not to waive their rights to remain silent or to legal counsel. Let them know you are working to get them out of jail. Remind them of their right to remain silent and tell them to use it!
4. Bail your child out of jail if possible. Resist the urge to “teach them a lesson” by leaving them in jail. Leaving anyone in jail until the case is resolved is rarely a good idea. Getting a child back to school or work can be an important factor in mitigating any damage the child has done to himself or herself.
5. Retain competent legal counsel. Be prepared to spend some money. You are protecting the investment you’ve made in your child. Resist the temptation to allow your child to be represented by the public defender. While no lawyer can guarantee the outcome of any case, a competent, and creative criminal defense lawyer will be worth the money.
6. Support your child as they go through “The System.” Criminal charges should never be taken lightly. A conviction remains with a child long after the fines are paid and probation or jail time is served. Your child needs your support, monetarily, emotionally, and even spiritually. Children make mistakes. Some mistakes are more serious than others. Even if your child is charged with a crime it doesn’t mean they are a criminal. It means they need the help of a competent criminal lawyer. Don’t be afraid to call for a free confidential consultation.
If you need assistance, 24-hour help is available at 1-800-590-1173.