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What Do I Do If My Child Is Arrested in Washington DC?

The news of a child being arrested can send shockwaves through any family. At Monument Legal, our team of DC juvenile defense attorneys understand the emotional turmoil and confusion that follows such an event. If your child has been arrested in Washington DC, it is essential to know the legal process, how to navigate it, and how best to support your child. In this blog, we’ll discuss what you can expect and how we can assist you in ensuring the best possible outcome.

Understanding Juvenile Defense Law in Washington DC

In Washington DC, a juvenile is defined as anyone under the age of 18. The law is designed with these youths in mind, recognizing their unique circumstances and developmental needs. Juvenile law emphasizes rehabilitation rather than punishment, reflecting the belief that teens can change and grow from their mistakes.

If your child is arrested, their case will generally be processed through the DC Superior Court, specifically in the Family Division, which focuses on cases involving minors. Understanding this setup is crucial as it influences how your child’s situation gets handled.

What Happens After a Juvenile Arrest?

After a child is arrested, the immediate next steps can be overwhelming. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Detention: Following the arrest, your child may be taken to a juvenile holding facility. Depending on the situation and the nature of the offense, they may be held until a hearing can be arranged. In some cases, the police may contact you to inform you of the arrest.
2. Initial Hearing: Typically, an initial detention hearing occurs within 48 hours of the arrest. During this hearing, a judge will decide whether to release your child into your custody or keep them detained. This process is governed by DC Code § 16-2301, which sets forth rules regarding juvenile detention.
3. Adjudication Hearing: If your child is kept detained or if there are serious charges, they may face an adjudication hearing. This is where evidence against your child is presented, similar to a trial for adults. If the court finds them delinquent, they will then move to the disposition phase, where penalties will be determined.

Common Reasons for Juvenile Arrests

In Washington DC, juveniles can be arrested for a variety of offenses. Common charges include:

• Theft: This can range from shoplifting to more severe theft-related offenses.
• Assault: Physical altercations can lead to assault charges, which occasionally occur among peers.
• Drug Offenses: Possession or use of illegal substances can lead to a juvenile arrest.
• Vandalism: Damage to property, often associated with graffiti, is treated seriously by law enforcement.
• Disorderly Conduct: This can involve disruptive behavior at school or in public spaces.
• Firearm Charges: This may involve possession of a firearm, a bb gun, a ghost gun, a toy gun or similar devices.
• Sexual Assault: This may involve a family member, a fellow student or another individual.

Understanding Penalties and Diversion Opportunities

The juvenile justice system in DC prioritizes rehabilitation, which means that there are often opportunities for diversion instead of traditional penalties. Common outcomes might include:

• Counseling and Treatment Programs: Instead of facing harsh penalties, your child may be offered counseling aimed at addressing underlying issues affecting their behavior.
• Community Service: Performing community service is a common sentence, teaching accountability while allowing your child to make amends.
• Deferred Sentencing Agreements (DSAs): Under certain circumstances (per DC Code § 16-2301), eligible juveniles may enter a DSA, where successfully completing specific terms can lead to case dismissal.

The Importance of Juvenile Defense Representation

If your child faces legal trouble, enlisting the help of a knowledgeable juvenile defense attorney is crucial. At Monument Legal, we specialize in DC juvenile law, and our experienced legal team is here to support you and your family through the process.

When working with families, we focus on collaboration and communication, ensuring you understand every aspect of the legal proceedings. Our services include representing your child at court hearings, negotiating with prosecutors, and pursuing diversion opportunities to minimize their exposure to the harsh realities of the juvenile justice system.

Contact Monument Legal to set up your consultation for juvenile defense in DC today.