Young people who have learned from past mistakes are eager to move forward. In Washington State, individuals can remove their juvenile criminal records from public access for a fresh start. Washington law allows the sealing of several types of juvenile records,...
Seattle Criminal Defense Law Blog
Understanding incompetency: when young offenders can’t stand trial
When a young person is accused of a crime, the legal system must determine whether they are competent or incompetent to stand trial. Incompetence refers to the individual's inability to face trial and to assist in their defense. Competency evaluations involve...
What constitutes stalking and what can parents do about it
As a parent, you want to protect your child from harm and guide them toward making good decisions. But what if you suspect your child is involved in stalking? Understanding what constitutes stalking and knowing the signs can help you take the proper steps to address...
Can your child be tried as an adult?
In Washington, most kids in trouble with the law go to juvenile court. This system focuses on helping them learn from their mistakes and become responsible adults. Still, it begs the question: is there a slight chance that your child will face adult court instead?...
School resource officers, juvenile crime and legal rights
The good news about education in Washington and throughout the country is two-fold: graduation rates are up and criminal activity in schools is down. If you’re a parent of school-aged children, you have no doubt worried about their safety when they are at school and...
Helping your child: early warning signs of potential trouble
Every parent worries about their child’s well-being. You want them to explore the world with confidence, make good choices and stay on a positive path. But sometimes, knowing if your child is heading down the right path can be difficult. Five warning signs to look out...
Protecting families regarding CPS investigations of juveniles
If you’re a Washington parent whose child is facing accusations of violence or criminal activity, it’s imperative that you understand your family’s rights, especially if Child Protective Services (CPS) becomes involved. There are certain things that CPS workers can do...
What are the rights of the youth in Washington juvenile courts?
Juvenile courts aim to hold the youth accountable and rehabilitate them while ensuring public safety. They accomplish this by seeking to attain the most favorable outcomes not just for the youth and but also for their communities. If your child is dealing with a...
Possible defense strategies for juveniles facing theft charges
Being charged with any type of theft crime can create a multitude of challenges for those here in the state of Washington. This can especially be true for juveniles facing these unfortunate situations due to the potential long-term repercussions in the event of a...
Youth detention centers could be closing in King County
We all make mistakes, especially teenagers. The last thing parents want is to see opportunities and doors close just because of a mistake their child made. Unfortunately, when these mistakes come in the form of criminal offenses, both parents and children can face a...