Was Your Teenager Arrested In Central Florida? Four Mistakes To Avoid As A Parent
Teenagers can get themselves into trouble. An arrest of a teenager could lead to serious long-term consequences in Florida—especially if a teen is facing certain types of criminal charges. Florida has a specialized process for juvenile justice. Parents need to be ready to help their kid navigate the system. In this article, our Orlando juvenile criminal defense lawyer highlights four all-too-common mistakes that parents should avoid if their teenager is arrested in Central Florida.
- Assuming that a Juvenile Arrest is No Big Deal
A common mistake parents make is assuming a juvenile arrest is no big deal. It is vital to remember that though the juvenile justice system differs from the adult one, consequences can still be severe. A criminal record can significantly impact a teenager’s future opportunities, affecting everything from college applications to employment prospects. If you dismiss such situations lightly, you may inadvertently set your child on a challenging path. All arrests are a big deal in Florida. Be sure to take the issue seriously. A proactive approach is key in juvenile justice cases.
- Waiting Too Long to Seek Professional Representation
Often, parents underestimate the complexities of the juvenile legal system and wait too long to seek professional representation. You and your teenager need a top Orlando, FL juvenile defense lawyer. By acting quickly and hiring a competent attorney specializing in juvenile law can make a significant difference in the case’s outcome. Professional legal guidance can help navigate the intricacies of the system, secure your child’s rights, and work toward the best possible result. Remember, the law is different in these cases. You need a lawyer with relevant criminal defense experience.
- Not Helping Your Teen Access the Best Options for Rehabilitation/Diversion
The Florida Juvenile Justice System offers rehabilitation and diversion programs designed to keep teenagers out of detention and help them reintegrate into society. These programs can have enormous benefits, focusing on addressing the root causes of the behavior rather than simply punishing the actions. It’s crucial as a parent not to neglect these opportunities.
- Failing to Ensure Your Child’s Records are Expunged to the Maximum Extent Possible
Under Florida law (Florida Statutes § 943.0582), there is a specialized process for the expungement of juvenile criminal records. Make sure you use every option to get your teen’s record sealed. Florida law allows for certain juvenile records to be sealed or expunged, essentially removing them from public view. An expunged record can mean the difference between a college acceptance letter and a rejection, a job offer or unemployment.
Schedule a Confidential Consultation With an Orlando Juvenile Defense Lawyer Today
At The Baez Law Firm, our Orlando criminal defense attorney has the specialized skills and experience to handle the full range of juvenile justice matters. If your teenager was arrested, we are here to protect their rights and their future. Contact us today to set up your confidential case review. From our Orlando law office, we represent juveniles throughout Central Florida.
