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When Your Child is Accused of Theft: Legal Steps and Support
Discovering that your child has been accused of theft can be a deeply unsettling experience. As a parent, you may feel a mix of emotions—shock, confusion, anger, and even guilt. However, you must approach the situation calmly and methodically. Juvenile theft accusations can have serious consequences, but with the right legal guidance and support, you can help your child navigate this challenging situation.
Contact our award-winning Orange County Juvenile Defense Lawyer, Katie Walsh, for reliable legal support in juvenile theft cases to ensure the best outcome for your child.
Stay Calm and Gather Information
When you first learn about the accusation, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. However, staying calm is essential. Begin by gathering as much information as possible about the incident. Ask your child for their side of the story, but avoid interrogating or blaming them. Your goal is to understand what happened and assess the validity of the accusation.
Understand the Juvenile Court Process
The juvenile court process differs from the adult criminal justice system. Instead of focusing solely on punishment, juvenile courts aim to rehabilitate young offenders and address the underlying issues that may have contributed to their behavior.
After an arrest, your child may be released to your custody or detained in a juvenile facility, depending on the severity of the charges. The next steps typically include:
- Arraignment: Your child will appear in court to hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-trial Conference: Your attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor to reach a plea agreement or have the charges reduced.
- Adjudication Hearing: If the case goes to trial, the judge will determine whether your child is delinquent (the juvenile equivalent of guilty).
- Disposition Hearing: If your child is found delinquent, the judge will decide on an appropriate sentence, including probation, community service, or counseling.
Explore Diversion Programs
In many cases, first-time offenders may be eligible for diversion programs. These programs allow juveniles to avoid formal charges by completing certain requirements, such as community service, restitution, or educational courses. Diversion programs are designed to help young people learn from their mistakes without the long-term consequences of a criminal record. Your attorney can help you determine whether your child is eligible for a diversion program and guide you through the application process.
Prepare for Court
Discuss court etiquette with your child and ensure they understand the importance of respectful behavior during proceedings. Explain that they must address the judge as “Your Honor,” speak clearly, and dress appropriately. Help them understand the seriousness of the proceedings and the need to remain calm and composed.
Hire an Orange County Juvenile Defense Lawyer
At the Law Office of Katie Walsh, we recognize that every juvenile case is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. When your child is accused of a crime, we take the time to understand their individual circumstances, including their background, motivations, and any underlying issues that may have contributed to the situation. This allows us to craft a personalized defense strategy tailored to their needs. Whether it’s negotiating for reduced charges, advocating for diversion programs, or fighting for case dismissal, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome.
Don’t let a mistake define your child’s future. Call (714) 351-0178 or message us online. Let us help your child get the second chance they deserve.
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