Although there might be a variety of scenarios in which the youthful indiscretion of teens might lead to legal troubles, some concerns might be more common than others. Parents in Washington who wish to protect their children and help them develop healthier life habits might benefit from evaluating some of the most prevalent types of juvenile offenses. However, it might not always be easy to deter unlawful behavior and knowing where to turn should the unimaginable occur may also be imperative.
The types
According to studies, shoplifting continues to be one of the most prevalent types of juvenile offenses, and there may be a variety of scenarios in which youths might exhibit such behavior. In some cases, legal concerns may also arise if juveniles are accused of illegally purchasing alcohol or cigarettes. Underage use of alcohol and drug possession are two more examples of common juvenile offenses.
Studies suggest that assault is another common concern for many youths, and something that might start out as a verbal spat could turn into a physical altercation that may prompt a similar outcome. Property crimes such as vandalism are also an issue that affects many youths. Teens who damage property or deface a wall by painting it with graffiti might not fully grasp the ramifications of their actions and similar offenses can carry severe consequences.
The options
Juvenile offenses can take on numerous forms and the outcome of the situation could have a lasting impact on a youth’s life. When similar issues arise, parents who remain uncertain how best to approach the situation might consider retaining the services of an attorney in Washington for advice. An attorney can provide insight into all a client’s legal rights and options, assist in creating a plan to help protect his or her child’s future interests, and provide information on resources to help address any issues that might promote unhealthy behaviors.