You probably still remember what it was like to be a teenager, and you know that it was not easy. Like most people in Washington, you probably made your fair share of mistakes during your teen years but were still able to move forward with your life. Unfortunately, your own child is facing much larger consequences for his or her lapse in judgment. It is important that you have someone who understands juvenile law on your side during this period of time.
Your teen might be facing any number of a wide range of juvenile offenses. Each charge comes with its own set of potential legal consequences. These include allegations for things like:
- Minor in possession — MIP — of alcohol
- Drug or drug paraphernalia possession
- Shoplifting or theft
- Vandalism
- Arson
- Domestic violence
Mental health is often overlooked in the world of juvenile law. Ignoring mental health makes it impossible to truly look out for a minor’s best interests. This is why working closely with other professionals — like substance abuse treatment providers and psychologists — is so important, as doing so can identify underlying issues that may have contributed to your teen’s behavior.
This is not the end of your teen’s life, even if it feels like it. However, successfully navigating through this difficult period of life often requires careful and experienced guidance. You should be certain to visit our website to learn more about Washington state juvenile law, charges for minors and how we can help you and your child through this process.