The role of mental health in alleged crimes is often overlooked. While the presence of a mental illness is not always explicit in a person’s behavior, it is sometimes apparent that an individual might have been going through a difficult time when he or she engaged in...
A mental or substance use disorder can have a substantial impact on your teen’s overall behavior. Unfortunately, their condition could make them act impulsively and get them in trouble. The law in Washington recognizes that your child’s mental disorder or substance...
Limiting the possibility of incarceration is often a top priority for parents of teens who are facing criminal allegations. For some Washington parents, the opportunity for ankle monitors may seem preferable to time spent in a juvenile detention facility. The...
A Washington state man was recently arrested for allegedly stealing a woman’s vehicle. The stolen vehicle apparently belonged to a police officer who had been killed in an off-duty accident. The man accused of stealing the vehicle is facing multiple criminal charges,...
Three friends who were reportedly driving around a Washington neighborhood on a recent Tuesday are now facing legal problems in connection with their travels. Police say the teenagers have been arrested. They are accused of committing drive-by shootings around town...
Teenagers often don’t make the best decisions. Perhaps, when you were young, you “borrowed” your dad’s treasured classic car and went on a joy ride or two. However, some of those under 18 go beyond teen hijinks and break the law. Some even commit serious crimes, such...
Should teenagers be punished as if they were adults? According to a pediatrician advocating for minors caught up in the juvenile system, no. Despite this, reform for youthful offenders has been slow, and many teens still face disproportionately severe consequences for...
Helping guide teenagers to make good decisions later in life is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile. However, there are mixed opinions about how to best accomplish this. In Washington, some teenagers who make mistakes are punished via incarceration while...
Being accused of domestic violence can take a toll on your daily life. One of the biggest issues you might encounter is a restraining order, which restricts your access to certain people -- generally the alleged victim -- and may prevent you from going home or even...
From the time a child is born, parents embark on a journey to help their children learn as their bodies and brains develop over the years. Children’s brains in particular need decades to fully develop. Despite this, the juvenile court in Washington currently has...
