As a parent, you never want to image your child being arrested, but it can happen, and before it does, it’s always wise to educate your child on what to do and what not do if they are ever taken into custody. Children often do things out of character when they are with friends, and occasionally they end up in trouble with the law. Other times they may just be at the wrong place at the wrong time, and they are arrested even if they didn’t do anything illegal.
Stay Calm
Getting a call that your child has been arrested invokes strong emotions, but it is important to keep a level head and stay as calm as possible. Teach your child, first and foremost, to be respectful of the police, and as the parent, you should do the same. It’s wise to understand that the police are not on your child’s side. They are merely responding to a complaint, and it’s their job to make a decision whether or not to detain your child for questioning.
What Your Child Should and Should Not Do
When a child is asked by the police to provide their name or identification, they should do so. They should also provide their parent’s name, address, and phone number if the officer requests it. If your child is questioned about their involvement in something, the child should not provide any information, and they should ask if they are free to leave. If the child is not allowed to go, they should immediately ask for a lawyer and that their parents be called. At that point, the child can refrain from answering questions, and you should retain a juvenile criminal attorney to represent your child’s best interests.
Defending a juvenile is not the same as defending adults accused of crimes. Juvenile crime is treated much differently. You need a juvenile defense lawyer who has juvenile law experience. Call the office of Charles Thompson right away if your child has been arrested.