The first feeling you may experience after receiving a call that your teen has been arrested is anger. That anger may eventually turn into confusion and then you may begin researching your options to best protect your teenager. No one ever expects their child to break the law, but it’s important to know what to do if they are arrested.
Ask Questions and Write Down Notes
In most cases, the arresting officer will notify you of what your teen has done and where they’re taking them. Because this time can be so overwhelming, it can be helpful to take notes. Jot down the jail your child is going to and any important details they may offer. You can ask to talk to your child, but they may not allow you to. If they do, inform your teen to wait for a lawyer.
Contact a Lawyer
Most laws don’t require a parent to be present during questioning. However, your child does have a right to a lawyer. Now is a good time to consider your options. Even if you’re allowed to be present during questioning, it can still be helpful to have a lawyer present. A criminal defense lawyer is familiar with New Jersey’s laws and can help your teen understand their options and what kinds of consequences they may be facing.
Gather More Details
Another benefit of working with a lawyer is that they can help you gather more information about your teen’s charges. It’s important to gather as much information as you can at this point. Wait to make a judgment. Try to avoid acting as your child’s lawyer.
Help Your Lawyer as Needed
The lawyer that you choose will guide you on what to do next. They will likely help you get your teen out of prison until their court date, if possible. They may request information from you. This is a good time to share any information you have with them. Let them know about your teen’s history if they have any learning or cognitive disabilities, or any other details that may be important to the case.
Talk to Your Child
Once your child is back home, you can find out what happened. Ask them to recall everything that led up to the charges. Try to let them speak until they get the whole story out. They may have more details that are important to the case that they overlooked before. It’s also important to demonstrate the seriousness of it to your teen and let them know the potential consequences.
Discuss Criminal Consequences with a Teen Before They Get into Trouble
If possible, it’s always a good idea to discuss criminal consequences with a teen before they get into trouble. Discuss with them what could happen if they’re found using drugs or driving while under the influence. In addition to understanding the laws, also inform them of their rights if they do find themselves in trouble. Let them know that they don’t have to talk to a police officer without having a lawyer present.
Contact an Experienced Hamilton Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Criminal Charges in Trenton
Was your teen arrested or charged with criminal charges in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving them with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending them to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about their case. The attorneys at The Davis Law Firm, LLC have successfully represented clients charged with criminal charges in Hamilton, Trenton, Ewing, Lawrence, and throughout New Jersey. Call 609-587-9100 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 2653 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.
