The day that police arrest your juvenile in Colorado is likely to be one of the most overwhelming days of your life. The emotions surrounding this event – shock, anger, fear – can make it challenging to remain levelheaded.
However, in the event that this does occur, it is crucial to take immediate steps to navigate the Colorado juvenile court system properly. Here are some things parents should know to prepare for their child’s arrest.
#1. Remain Calm and Non-Judgmental
No matter what your child has done, it’s important to remind them that you are an ally and here to help. With an estimated 700,000 juvenile arrests occurring in the US during 2019, your child is not in this boat alone. Let them know that they will get through this experience and that you’ll be working to support them throughout the process.
#2. Stay Courteous with the Authorities
While staying composed in front of the officers who arrested your child may seem difficult, remaining respectful is key. Insulting or arguing with the authorities will only hurt your child’s case. Remember that you are not a lawyer; instead, you are simply there to provide your child with emotional support.
#3. Do NOT Speak to the Police without a Lawyer Present
While you should always maintain a polite attitude towards the authorities, you should also understand that they are not on your child’s side. Unfortunately, the police are not impartial when it comes to your child’s case. As such, you should refrain from speaking with them without a lawyer present.
The right to remain silent also applies to your child. While juveniles in custody must provide at least some identifying information, such as their name and date of birth, they are not required to disclose any information regarding their case. If the police try to speak to your child, you and your child should invoke the right to remain silent and request to speak to a juvenile defense attorney.
#4. Call a Lawyer Immediately
You may be asking yourself, “Do you need a lawyer for juvenile court?” The short answer is: yes.
After your child informs you of their arrest, you’ll want to contact a juvenile defense lawyer immediately. This is a vital step, as an experienced lawyer will understand the ins and outs of Colorado juvenile laws and how they apply to your child’s case. Most importantly, a juvenile lawyer will be a steadfast advocate for both you and your child for the duration of their case.
#5. Talk to your Child
In these early moments, it’s crucial to keep your child informed and hopeful. Once you have spoken to a lawyer, be sure to relay any important information to your child. Let them know about the juvenile court, how Colorado juvenile laws might apply to their situation, and anything else your attorney deems essential. You’ll also want to remind them not to talk to the police under any circumstances, as this could potentially interfere with their case down the line.
Do You Need a Lawyer for Juvenile Court?
If you’ve already found yourself searching “juvenile attorney near me,” you’ve likely discovered there is no shortage of options. The real problem is finding a lawyer you can trust to fight tirelessly for you and your child.
Since 2012, the expert attorneys at The Juba Law Office, PLLC, have established themselves as dedicated law professionals who get results. Don’t wait for your case to worsen; call us immediately at (303) 974-1080 for a consultation on your situation and the options you may have.
SOURCES:
https://www.ojjdp.gov/ojstatbb/crime/qa05101.asp
https://www.vice.com/en/article/mvkgnp/law-professor-police-interrogation-law-constitution-survival
