A parent who hears that their child is facing juvenile charges will often feel stressed and feel that the child’s entire future is going to be negatively impacted. While it’s true that juvenile charges are serious, they’re much different from adult charges.
In the juvenile justice system, the focus is on accountability, supervision and rehabilitation, but there are still specific consequences that will occur. Understanding the basics of the juvenile justice system may be beneficial for parents in this position.
What leads to a child being involved with the juvenile justice system?
A juvenile matter can be the result of a variety of situations. These can include things like theft, assault, property damage, drugs, weapons or threats. Referrals into the juvenile justice system often begin with an arrest, contact with the police or an incident at school.
Once a child is involved with the juvenile justice system, the parent may receive instructions and notices that require prompt attention. These will often come with specific requirements or court dates, so reading every document is critical.
What happens during the juvenile justice process?
Juvenile court proceedings can vary, but they typically involve intake reviews, hearings, possible detention decisions or other court-ordered sentences. The court can give the child a curfew, require them to attend school, participate in counseling, complete community service or avoid certain people. While these may mean significant changes for the household, it’s important to follow the requirements.
Parents who have children involved in the juvenile justice system should ensure they get their child the assistance they need. Working with someone familiar with these situations may be beneficial for the parents and the juvenile.