Hearing your child has been arrested can be a difficult pill for any parent to swallow, but it’s important to remember that your kid is probably just as overwhelmed and afraid as you are. Here’s what you should do to help when your child has been detained.
Call an Attorney
For children, your best option is to get an attorney who specializes in juvenile defense. Most average defense attorneys don’t have the experience or unique skills required to effectively represent children in court. A juvenile defense attorney is your child’s best chance at getting away from their mistake with a clean record. Poor representation by an attorney who isn’t equipped to defend your child can leave a permanent stain on their record, which will follow your child for years to come. On top of that, a juvenile defense attorney will help your child understand the legal process and navigate it with greater success.
Tell Them to Remain Silent
Even if your child already knows how to act around police officers, you should remind them to remain silent until their attorney arrives. One wrong word could completely change the outcome of your child’s trial, and saying the wrong thing to the wrong officer could lead to your child being physically harmed. Remind your child to be respectful and cooperative in every encounter they have with the police, and make sure they know that they don’t have to answer any questions until their attorney arrives, no matter how hard an officer presses them.
Stay on Your Probation Officer’s Good Side
After your child is detained, a probation officer will be assigned to their case to decide what should happen next. The probation officer will write a letter of recommendation after your child’s first court hearing, which will either recommend release, house arrest, or further detainment. If your child is released, work your hardest to keep on the probation officer’s good side. This means holding your child to a higher standard for school attendance and grades, and making sure they adhere to the terms of their release. If your child’s probation officer sees good attendance and grades, they’ll take that into consideration when deciding how your child’s case should play out.
Inform the Court About Your Child
If your child has any mental health issues or disabilities, the court needs to know. Give any important medical documents to your child’s attorney so they can be considered in court. This includes proof of diagnoses and treatment.
Go to your family members and your child’s school staff to ask for character letters. These letters can help give the judge a more well-rounded view of who your child really is, which might incentivize them to give your child a chance.
Get Out of Jail Fast with A-EZ Out
If you or a loved one has been arrested, call A-EZ Out right away! We’re available 24/7 to bail you out of any jail in Tarrant, Dallas, Collin, or Denton County. Our close proximity to the municipal jail center means we can get you out of jail faster than competitor agencies. Call or visit our website to get in touch with an experienced bail bondsman today!