Kleptomania, an impulse control disorder, compels people to steal items they don't need. This condition can be particularly challenging when it affects minors, leading to legal complications. Understanding kleptomania and how to navigate the legal system can help you...
Seattle Criminal Defense Law Blog
Higher risk of false charges for minors on the autism spectrum
As a parent of a child with developmental challenges or autism, you face unique problems in keeping them safe and treated fairly, especially in the legal system. Children on the autism spectrum or with developmental challenges often face false charges because...
How can your child’s adjudication affect them in the long term?
Juvenile court cases can affect a young person’s future for a long time, depending on the type of charge and the outcome. In Washington state, cases in juvenile court are supposed to have a goal of help and rehabilitation, rather than solely punish. However, the...
Can stalking behavior be related to mental health issues?
Stalking is a significant issue that affects many individuals across different communities. It involves unwanted and repeated surveillance or contact that causes fear or distress. Understanding stalking's roots, particularly its connection to mental health, is crucial...
The dangers of police interrogating children alone
We have our Miranda rights for a reason. They are supposed to protect us from self-incrimination and coercion by state forces. That is why the law deems any confession or statement you made during interrogation without your rights read as inadmissible. The dangers of...
How bullying can escalate to stalking
Bullying is a term we often hear, especially in school settings. Many of us have either witnessed it or experienced it firsthand. It starts with seemingly harmless teasing or exclusion but can become more sinister. Understanding how bullying can escalate to stalking...
New mental health initiative aimed to help juveniles, prevent youth violence.
In a progressive move to promote healthier communities, Seattle unveiled a plan to invest in youth mental health earlier this year. This initiative acknowledges the correlation between violence among juveniles, their involvement in the court system and a lack of...
When can CPS remove a child from a home, and what can parents do?
The possibility of CPS removing your child is incredibly stressful. However, you can protect your family by understanding the reasons behind CPS investigations and acting quickly to get help and guidance if someone files a report. Remember, you have rights and...
Juvenile robbery in West Seattle caught on camera
The advent of CCTV has significantly impacted criminal activity, often providing crucial evidence to solve otherwise dead-end cases. Such is the case of a woman in Washington who was robbed in broad daylight by five teenage girls. Uncovering the truth The incident...
Understanding the legal process for young offenders with mental illness
The significant increase in the number of young offenders, both in the country and worldwide, is concerning. However, the situation becomes even more complicated when these offenders also struggle with mental illness. Young offenders with mental illness Mental...