As someone who is facing the prospect of your child being charged with a crime, it can be an incredibly difficult and confusing time. The thought of your child being considered an adult in the eyes of the law is a daunting one, with potential serious consequences. Understanding when children can be charged as adults…
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Newsweek reported in September 2024 that there has been an increase in young people accused of crimes (1). As a parent, finding out that your child is facing a juvenile detention hearing in Orange County can be an incredibly challenging and emotional experience, but know that you are not alone. As an Orange County juvenile…
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Restorative justice is an innovative approach to juvenile justice that focuses on repairing harm caused by the offense and addressing the underlying causes of criminal behavior. Rather than relying solely on punitive measures, restorative justice programs aim to involve all parties affected by the offense, including the victim, the offender, and the community. By providing…
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When a teenager finds themselves facing the juvenile justice system for the first time, the experience can be overwhelming for both them and their family. First-time offenses, often driven by impulsive decisions or peer pressure, don’t have to define a young person’s future. Thankfully, the juvenile system recognizes the potential for growth and offers diversion…
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Mental health disorders are rampant among juveniles who find themselves in the justice system. Disorders such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and conduct disorders are disproportionately prevalent. And the majority of these juveniles have experienced trauma, abuse, neglect or come from challenging socioeconomic backgrounds—all factors contributing to their mental health struggles. Statistics show…
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As a student, you might not think much about your legal rights—until the moment they’re being tested. Whether it’s a locker inspection or a surprise check of your phone, school searches raise serious questions about privacy and fairness. Katie Walsh is dedicated to defending the rights of students and ensuring that educational institutions uphold the…
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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…
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Teenagers often experiment, but when it comes to substance abuse, the stakes are high. With 4.2 million teens using illicit drugs, what starts as a “phase” can quickly lead to serious legal issues. Nearly 25% of juvenile arrests in California are substance-related, with affected youth over twice as likely to commit crimes. Addressing this issue…
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Mistakes made during youth shouldn’t define the rest of your life. Unfortunately, juvenile records can often act as a barrier to future opportunities. The good news? You don’t have to carry that burden forever. In California, sealing juvenile records can be a powerful way to help young people move forward without the stigma of their…
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Juvenile criminal cases involving delinquency, truancy, and child protection demand a thorough understanding of not only the juvenile justice system. There are also unique emotional and psychological aspects to consider. The bottom line is that, without top-notch legal representation, juveniles are at a disadvantage. For a steadfast, vigorous defense, contact Orange County juvenile crime lawyer…
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