Parent Involvement in Juvenile Plea Bargains

Law Office of Katie Walsh

Parents often find themselves in unfamiliar territory when a child encounters legal trouble. The juvenile justice system, with its detailed procedures and terminology, can be overwhelming. A key part of many cases is the plea bargaining process, where parental involvement can greatly influence the outcome. As guardians manage both legal challenges and emotional stress, your role in these negotiations is essential. 

Understanding Plea Bargains in the Juvenile Justice System

Plea bargains are agreements between the defense and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a more lenient sentence or the dismissal of other charges.

Plea bargains are frequently used in juvenile cases for several reasons:

  1. They can expedite the legal process, sparing your child the stress of a trial.
  2. They can result in reduced charges or penalties, which might include probation or community service instead of detention.
  3. Plea bargains are often seen as a way to resolve cases in a manner that considers the child’s future rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

The Role of Parents in the Plea Bargaining Process

As a parent, you have both legal rights and responsibilities when it comes to your child’s plea bargain. You have the right to be informed about all aspects of the plea deal, and it’s your responsibility to ensure that your child’s best interests are prioritized.

  1. Providing Crucial Context: You know your child better than anyone—understanding their background, challenges, and circumstances. This knowledge is invaluable to the defense attorney in building a comprehensive defense strategy. Your insights can help paint a more complete picture of your child’s situation, influencing the prosecutor’s perspective during plea negotiations.
  2. Serving as a Support System: The stress and anxiety of facing criminal charges can overwhelm any young person. Your involvement offers emotional stability, helping your child make better decisions during this critical time.
  3. Suggesting Alternative Interventions: As a parent, you may be aware of alternative solutions better suited to your child’s needs, such as counseling or therapy. These options can be proposed during plea negotiations, ensuring that the outcome not only addresses the legal issue but also promotes your child’s growth and rehabilitation.

Research shows that with parental involvement, juveniles are more likely to receive reduced charges, lighter penalties, and resolutions that focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Additionally, children are more likely to successfully complete any required programs or interventions when their parents are involved.

Contact a Juvenile Defense Lawyer in Orange County Today

Katie Walsh brings a wealth of experience to defending juveniles within the justice system. With a background as a former prosecutor, she understands both sides of the courtroom, allowing her to craft defense strategies that truly protect the rights and futures of young clients. Katie collaborates closely with parents, ensuring they’re informed and involved every step of the way. Whether it’s navigating a plea bargain or exploring alternative solutions, Katie Walsh is committed to protecting your child’s future. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to call us at (714) 619-9355 or contact us online.

Client Reviews

I hired attorney Katie Walsh to help my son when he was found with a large amount of drugs on school campus. She got us through the Expulsion Hearing, and miraculously he can go back to school at the winter semester...

AR- parent of minor client

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AR, criminal client

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CT, parent of juvenile client

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DH - Parent of Juvenile client

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DR- mother of juvenile client

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EG, parent of juvenile client

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GK,TK, parents of juvenile client

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HA, mother of 13 year old Victim Rights client

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JW, former juvenile client

I was charged with a Felony Conspiracy charge- PC 182. After hiring Ms. Walsh she got my charged reduced to a misdemeanor right away, and now I just have to do community service and in 6 months my entire case will be...

KP, juvenile client

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LR, former juvenile client

Ms. Walsh got the judge to terminate my son's probation and seal his 2 juvenile cases (Penal Code 288(a) and Penal Code 242) even though he had violated my probation by picking up a new case. By getting his record sealed...

MB- mother of juvenile client

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MB, restraining order client

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MG, parent of minor

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MPF, mother of criminal client

I really liked having Ms. Walsh as my attorney. She visited me in Juvenile Hall. I was charged with four counts of Robbery (Penal Code 211). This was my 8th juvenile petition. Ms. Walsh got 2 of the robbery charges...

MU, juvenile client

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NF, criminal client

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RG

My daughter was pulled over arrested for having a Fake ID. After hiring Ms. Walsh my daughter did not have to plead guilty- which would have affected her license status. She did community service, completed a legal...

RS

My 14 year old daughter was involved in an assault and battery- PC 240/242, in Irvine. After hiring Katie Walsh the case was not referred to Court. My daughter was able to complete a class and the case will be dismissed...

SG, mother a juvenile client

My son was charged with possession of Child Pornography P.C. 311.11(a) - a charge I did not realize a child could be guilty of! As parents were beside ourselves when we found this out, and contacted Katie Walsh. She...

SH- mother of juvenile client

From San Diego I contacted Ms. Walsh about sealing my juvenile record in Orange County regarding a Petty Theft charge. She was always very responsive to any of my questions, and consistently kept me updated. Even though...

XL, juvenile client

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