In the past decade, it has become more common for children to be referred to adult criminal courts for trial. Juveniles are treated as adults in the court system, without the special protections given to juveniles. If your child has been charged with a crime, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation with an attorney who will respond aggressively to your child's juvenile law matter.
Southern California Juvenile Justice Lawyers
At McGlinn & McGlinn, Attorneys at Law, our attorneys advocate for children and youth in a wide range of matters. Our goal is to help young people who find themselves involved in the juvenile justice system in cases involving juvenile crime, DMV hearings and California's Child Protective Services (CPS). Read about juvenile matters in the paragraphs below.
Thank you for contacting McGlinn & McGlinn, Attorneys at Law. Your message has been sent.
Call us now
or use the form below.
Contact McGlinn & McGlinn, Attorneys at Law, to learn more about our San Diego legal practice. Call us at 619-291-5115
Since the 1970s, our law firm has served parents and children in the San Diego area, providing creative and caring representation that seeks to get kids on the right track. Call to find out more about our legal practice.
Parental Liability
Many states have adopted laws that make parents responsible for the actions of their children. Some states impose criminal liability on parents and other states provide that a parent may be sued by a person injured by their child. In addition, many cities and counties have enacted ordinances, or local laws, that make a parent guilty of an offense, such as "failing to supervise a minor," if a child breaks the law. Because the laws vary so much, and because the legal and financial consequences may be severe, contact McGlinn & McGlinn, Attorneys at Law in San Diego, California, as soon as possible to schedule a consultation with an attorney who can advise you regarding your rights and responsibilities.
Parental Responsibility
Parental responsibility laws differ from state to state. Most, if not all, states have laws that make it a crime to contribute to the delinquency of a minor, or to allow a child to consume alcohol or illegal drugs. In many states, a parent commits a crime if his or her child does not attend school as required by law. In a few states, a parent may be fined or even imprisoned for failing to supervise a child. These laws mainly apply to parents whose children are involved in serious criminal activity.
Other states do not make parents criminally liable for the acts of their child, but require parents to assume some responsibility if their child breaks the law. In some states, the laws require parents to be active participants in juvenile court proceedings. Parents in those states are required to attend all hearings that concern their child. Some states require parents to participate in counseling sessions with their child and agree to enforce any conditions of probation ordered for their child. Other states order parents to pay restitution to the victim of their child's offense. Some laws go even further, requiring parents to pay the cost of prosecuting their child. If a child is placed in a residential detention center, his or her parents may be required to pay for the child's room and board.
Talk to a Lawyer
Parents want what is best for their children, and they want to make sure that their children stay out of trouble with the law. While most parents are willing to accept some responsibility for making sure their children behave, parental responsibility laws can impose added stress on a family that is already going through a difficult time. Fines or court costs imposed on a parent may worsen a family's financial situation, while jail time for a parent takes that parent away from their child when they need them most. In order to protect yourself and your family, if your child is involved in a juvenile court matter, do not delay in contacting a lawyer who can provide the guidance and advice you need. Contact McGlinn & McGlinn, Attorneys at Law in San Diego, California]], today to schedule a consultation with an attorney.
Copyright © 2011 FindLaw, a Thomson Reuters business
DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.
