It’s natural for parents to want to be there for their children at all times, whether for monumental life steps and special occasions, or all the small things in between. And when things get rocky, parents want to make everything better for their kids. This is especially true when kids get into serious trouble. Kids are young and inexperienced, and bound to make mistakes. So when children are beginning to approach an age where they can break the law and be penalized for it, it is important for parents to educate themselves on what to do if their child
is ever arrested for a crime.

Arrested Minors

There are three ways a minor is arrested for a crime. They are either arrested at the scene of the crime, summoned to appear for a court hearing for a crime, or issued a warrant for their arrest for being a suspect of a crime. Most often, minors are arrested at scene. If the crime is something minor and traffic-related, like driving with a suspended license, the officer may choose to be lenient and let them off with a summons for court, rather than taking them to jail. But for more serious infractions, minors will be handcuffed, read their Miranda rights, and taken to jail for processing.

Common crimes for minors include shoplifting, vandalism, truancy, trespassing, underage drinking, drug possession, and more. If a minor commits a crime, but not caught at the scene, they will be issued a warrant for their arrest, and must surrender to authorities to face their charges, or face additional legal penalties. For example, if a teenager robs a grocery store and gets away, but the entire crime was caught on tape, an arrest warrant will be issued for their arrest.

What to Do as a Parent

Once you have custody of your child again, usually after their arraignment is concluded, it is important to immediately retain the services of an experience criminal defense attorney. They have the knowledge and resources needed to build a strong defense for your minor, giving them the best possible chance of avoiding maximum penalties. They will guide you through the entire legal process, doing all that they can for your child’s case. And they will ensure you are doing everything right as well.

Do not opt for a public defender to save money. They generally have many cases to see to and cannot give your child’s case the special attention it deserves. When it comes to your child’s reputation and future, it’s not worth taking the risk. Hire a trusted criminal lawyer to protect your child’s rights and preserve their freedoms instead.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense Attorney

Call David E. Lewis Attorney at Law at 317-636-7514 if your child was arrested in Indianapolis, Indiana. He provides comprehensive criminal defense for minors facing criminal charges for misdemeanor and felony crimes. Attorney David E. Lewis will work around the clock fighting for your child’s rights. Call 317-636-7514 to discuss your legal matters with an experienced Indianapolis criminal defense attorney you can trust.