One phone call can transport you to a different world. It is a world with its own unfamiliar language—“delinquent acts” instead of “crimes,” and “adjudications” instead of “trials.” This is the Louisiana juvenile justice system, and for a parent, it is one of the most disorienting places you can find yourself.
Knowing what to expect is the first step in protecting your child’s future. Here are four key things every parent should understand about this unique legal process.
1. Your child has the right to remain silent
Just like an adult, your child has the constitutional right to remain silent and not answer questions from law enforcement. It is critical that they understand this right. You should both wait to speak with an attorney before making any statements about what happened.
2. The first hearing is about custody, not guilt
If law enforcement holds your child after an arrest, their first court appearance is a continued custody hearing. The purpose of this hearing is not to determine if they are guilty. The judge will only decide if they can safely release your child to your custody while the case moves forward.
3. Diversion is often the primary goal
For many first-time juvenile offenders, the main objective is to avoid a formal court record. A “diversion” or an “informal adjustment agreement” allows a child to complete certain requirements, like counseling or community service. If they succeed, the court often dismisses the charges entirely.
4. The record can often be sealed
Protecting your child’s future opportunities is paramount. Even if there is a formal adjudication, a juvenile record does not have to follow your child forever. In many cases, the record can be sealed or expunged after a certain period, preventing it from appearing on background checks for college or jobs.
A guide through a complex system
Understanding these key aspects of the law can help you make better decisions for your child. The juvenile justice system is fast-moving and has its own distinct rules.
If your child is facing charges in Tangipahoa Parish, consider speaking with an experienced juvenile defense attorney. A lawyer can explain these steps in more detail and fight for the best possible result for your child.