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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Minors have a right to privacy, especially when it comes to being questioned by the police. It can be a frightening and stressful experience for anyone to be confronted by law enforcement, especially for a young person. It is important to understand and protect the privacy rights of juveniles during these interactions. As an Orange…
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Educational advocates play a crucial role in ensuring that juveniles receive the support and guidance they need throughout their time in the Orange County juvenile justice system. Juvenile delinquency cases can be emotionally difficult for all parties involved, including the families, the child, and even the school system. In these cases, educational advocates play a…
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Diversion programs offer an alternative to the traditional juvenile court process, focusing even more on rehabilitation than other juvenile crime penalties. In contrast, traditional juvenile court proceedings do lead to harsher consequences, like being sentenced to a juvenile detention facility or probation. To further explore Orange County’s diversion program options, don’t hesitate to reach out…
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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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