If Your Child Is Arrested for Vandalism | Hart Law Offices, P.C.

Taking the correct steps if your child is arrested can help you remain calm and ensure your child is protected. Here are some tips for any parent whose preteen or teenager is arrested for vandalism.

Your first instinct might be to jump in the car, head to the police station, and begin yelling at the first person you see. Unfortunately, this tactic will do more harm than good. Instead, calmly enter the police station and ask about your child's welfare and the charges against them. Be respectful to the officers and answer their questions.

Typically, the officer will ask your child's full name, age, and address. The officer will also ask for your personal information. Depending on the severity of the crime and your child's age, your teen might either be released to you or placed under arrest. If your child is arrested and questioned, be aware that you might not have the right to stay with them.

Whatever the case, contact an attorney immediately, and inform the police that an attorney is being consulted. The police will not have the right to question your child without a lawyer present after this occurs.

If your child is placed under arrest, contact an attorney immediately. Choose an attorney who specializes in juvenile criminal defense, not your regular family lawyer. Juvenile court cases need a special set of skills and knowledge to handle. If you don't have an attorney, ask a friend or family member for a referral.

Do not act an as attorney for your child. This is a mistake many parents make, and this choice will be detrimental to your child's case. For example, some police officers might try to get your child to admit guilt or encourage them to write a letter of apology to the victim. Anything your child tells the police is admissible in court and could be damaging to their case.

An attorney will keep your child's best interests at heart and provide them with expert advice to protect their rights.

The vandalism and juvenile arrest laws in Idaho will dictate how your child is prosecuted. Understanding these laws will help you prepare for the entire process.

For example, depending on your child's age and the severity of their crime, your child might be referred to your county's probation officer or a diversion program rather than being arrested. This option allows your child to receive the counseling and resource they need, which will help prevent future crimes.

If your child is found guilty of vandalism, they will face any number of possible outcomes. For example, if your child isn't formally charged or found guilty of the vandalism, your child may be ordered to pay money to the victim or take part in community service.

More severe punishment can occur if your child is found guilty of vandalism. The potential punishment is dependent on the severity of the charges. For instance, in Idaho, if your child is found guilty of misdemeanor vandalism, your child could face up to three months in a juvenile detention facility.

If your child is arrested for vandalism, know what to do next to take care of your child’s legal needs. If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to contact the professionals at Hart Law Offices, P.C.