As of November 1, 2023, most juveniles will no longer have to register as a sex offender and be eligible to seal their convictions. Law enforcement will start removing eligible people from the registry soon and mailing letters confirming they have been removed. If you receive a letter indicating that you have been removed from the registry, please contact our office for a free consultation to determine if you are eligible to seal your offense.

Helping You Protect Your Future

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Addressing studies on the issues about juvenile incarceration

On Behalf of | Jan 17, 2023 | Juvenile offenses |

While there may be a variety of measures intended to help stem the tide of juvenile delinquency, some might not always prove as effective as intended. Incarceration is a common example of a punishment youthful offenders might face, but there may be some inherent issues with this process. Addressing some of the most common concerns with juvenile incarceration could help parents in Washington who face similar issues prepare to seek advice on the available options to help protect the well-being of their children. 

Questions about benefits of incarceration 

Recent studies on juvenile incarceration highlight numerous potential issues with this process, one of which pertains to the notion that it may do little to deter delinquent behaviors. Data from these studies suggest that recidivism rates for those who are released from incarceration do not show signs of improvement while decreases in incarceration rates among youths do not lead to higher risks of repeat offenses. Researchers also raise concerns about the impact incarceration could have on a youth’s well-being and how it could lead to a greater risk of mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. 

There are also concerns about the impact incarceration might have on a youth’s education, and how this might affect one’s future employment opportunities. Studies indicate that issues with unjust treatment and abuse may also be a concern in many youth incarceration facilities and being exposed to similar issues can be a devastating experience. While there may be alternatives to incarceration that might help mitigate these risks and better address the underlying issues, parents who face similar concerns might not know how best to pursue similar measures. 

Addressing the options 

Parents of youths who face the possibility of juvenile incarceration may encounter an understandable desire for guidance on alternatives to this process. When facing a similar situation, parents could find it helpful to speak with an attorney who understands what is at stake for advice on carefully evaluating all available options. An attorney in Washington can assist a client in preparing to make informed choices while creating a strategy to protect the well-being of his or her child.