What should parents know if their child is being investigated for a crime?

When a child is being investigated for a crime in Florida, it is a highly stressful and emotional situation for both the child and the parents. As a parent, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the legal process and how to navigate through it.

The first thing that parents need to understand is that children have rights just like adults do. Even though children are minors and not yet legally responsible for their actions, they still have the right to due process and a fair trial. The Florida Constitution provides specific rights to children accused of crimes, such as the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to confront witnesses against them. These rights are essential and children must know them and how to exercise them. Florida law does not allow a parent to assert these rights on behalf of their children.
When a child is being investigated for a crime, it is crucial to hire a juvenile law expert. A juvenile law expert can help the child and the parents navigate the legal process and protect the child’s rights.

A juvenile law expert is an attorney who specializes in representing minors who are involved in the criminal justice system. A juvenile law expert has a deep understanding of Florida’s juvenile justice system and the laws that govern it. They are well-versed in the unique legal and social issues that arise in cases involving minors, including issues related to mental health, education, and rehabilitation.

As a juvenile law expert, we can help the child understand the charges against them and the potential consequences of a conviction. It is important to remember that anything the child says to law enforcement can be used against them in court. Therefore, it is essential to have an attorney present during any questioning.

Parents should also be aware that the juvenile justice system in Florida operates differently from the adult criminal justice system. The primary goal of the juvenile justice system is to rehabilitate the child and prevent future criminal behavior. Therefore, the process is focused on intervention and treatment rather than punishment. However, this does not mean that the consequences of juvenile crimes are minor. A juvenile conviction can still have long-lasting effects on the child’s future, including their ability to attend college, secure employment, or obtain a professional license.

When a child is being investigated for a crime, it is essential to be proactive and involved in the legal process. Parents should attend all court hearings and meetings with the child’s attorney. It is also crucial to communicate with the attorney and provide any relevant information or evidence that can help the case. Parents should work with the attorney to develop a defense strategy that takes into account the child’s unique circumstances, such as their age, mental health, and previous criminal record.

If the child is adjudicated delinquent, i.e. found guilty of a crime, it is crucial to understand the consequences of the “conviction.” In Florida, the consequences can range from community service to incarceration in a juvenile residential facility. The severity of the punishment depends on the nature of the crime, the child’s age, and their criminal record. It is important to remember that the consequences of a juvenile conviction can have a significant impact on the child’s future, and it is essential to work with the attorney to minimize the impact of the conviction.

Finally, parents should be aware of the expungement process in Florida. Expungement is the process of removing a criminal record from public view. If the child is eligible, it is essential to work with the attorney to pursue expungement of the record. Expungement can help the child move forward from the experience and minimize the impact of the conviction on their future.

Being investigated for a crime is a challenging experience for a child and their parents. However, with the right legal representation and support, it is possible to navigate the legal process and protect the child’s rights. Parents should be aware of the juvenile justice system in Florida, hire a juvenile law expert.