Juvenile Crimes in Olympia

One of the most difficult jobs an adult can have is that of a parent. When a child is accused of doing something wrong, it can weigh heavily on the parents. There will always be a fine line between teaching your child a lesson and protecting their future. Most parents are not especially familiar with the police, the law, and the court system. When the government becomes involved in your child’s life, it is important to reach out to an attorney for further guidance. We all want what is best for your child.

When a child is accused with a crime, the government can choose to handle it in several different ways.

The prosecutor may choose to charge your child as an adult in the normal court system. This means a municipal court, a district court, or the normal superior court will handle the case – depending on the type of crime.

Another possible option that the prosecutor may choose is to file the case in juvenile court. This is a distinctly different court system. Generally speaking, a juvenile court is more geared towards treatment and rehabilitation as opposed to sanctioning and punishing. The Thurston County Juvenile court is in a different complex and location than that of the “adult” court system.

Some jurisdictions also have a community based diversion program. This can take on a variety of different forms but generally speaking, there are several different representatives from the community who meet with the child and the parents. There is then a series of questions and a discussion about the child and the child’s future. If the panel is satisfied there is a plan is in place which protects the child and the community, the issue can be concluded then. However, if not, the case can be referred back to prosecutor to handle.

If your child is being accused of a crime, it is important to speak with an attorney. The world and court system has changed dramatically since when we were children. What was once good advice then may not be a good idea to follow now. Please give our office a call so we can help you and your family work through this difficult and stressful situation.