What should I do in Michigan if accused as a juvenile?
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Being a parent, guardian, or other close relative of a child who is involved with the juvenile justice system can be a difficult and terrifying experience. When parents suddenly realize that their child has entered a system where they no longer have complete control over what happens to them, they frequently respond in panic.
It can be challenging and perplexing to navigate the juvenile justice system, and many parents initially experience a sense of helplessness and confusion. You’ll have a lot of questions and need accurate information starting from the minute the knock comes at your door and continuing all the way through the procedure.
What Will Happen If My Child is Arrested?
A police officer will likely take your child to the Family Division of the Circuit Court of the county where the alleged offense was committed as soon as they have them in custody and file a delinquency petition. If necessary, the police officer may take them to the police station first to finish the booking process or to gather information, such as fingerprints. The police officer is required to contact the young person’s parents or legal guardians as soon as they take a child into custody. Next, one of two things will happen depending on the severity of the crime your child is accused of and whether or not your child has previously encountered the legal system, they will either be released into your care until their appearance date in court or they’ll be sent to a facility where they’ll be housed or locked up until their court date. If your child is taken into custody, they will probably be taken to a juvenile detention center, a preliminary hearing should be scheduled within 24 hours after your child’s arrest.
Can A Juvenile’s Parents or Guardians be Held Responsible for the Juvenile’s Actions?
Parental responsibility laws in Michigan hold parents accountable for their children’s misbehavior. These laws make parents accountable for their children’s behavior by making them subject to civil and/or criminal penalties. Penalties for breaking these statutes include the following, increasing parental involvement in juvenile court procedures, financial obligations for court fees and restitution payments, financial accountability for expenditures associated with detention, treatment, and supervision, participation in counseling, treatment, and other programs for diversion, and if parents are proven to have been neglectful in their care, they could face criminal charges and jail time.
The Legal Advice of Lawyers for Juvenile Charges Matters
In Michigan’s criminal justice system, it is regarded as a special situation when a juvenile or minor is charged with a crime. Due to the additional layer of intricacy under Michigan’s juvenile offender statutes, properly addressing and defending against juvenile criminal accusations is not an easy task. For minors to successfully escape criminal court and seek out alternatives to criminal punishment, such as rehab, aid, or guidance programs, a large amount of knowledge and expertise is needed.
Goldman and Associates Law Firm can serve your legal needs, particularly on what to do when a juvenile is charged. Family law attorneys specialize in the matter and have multiple experiences in the court. Reach out to us if you have some concerns by setting an appointment here.