No parent ever plans to receive that call, but it happens to thousands of parents in the United States each year. You receive a call informing you that your child has been arrested. Instantly, you are overwhelmed with what to do – this is normal. Most individuals are not aware of what steps to take immediately after their child’s arrest. But, the actions you take could make a difference.

Steps to Take After the Arrest

Naturally, the best way to ward off trouble is to be aware of your child’s actions and where he or she is at all times. Even the best parents have trouble keeping track of their teenagers, however, and not all teenagers are forthcoming about their intentions with their parents. Once the arrest occurs, here is what you need to do:

1. Realize that even good kids can get in trouble. Just because your child has been arrested does not mean that this will become an ongoing issue, or even that your child is bad. Even good children are arrested. Your child could have been in the wrong place at the wrong time – so never assume the worse.
2. The police are not on your side. No matter what law enforcement tries to tell you, the police are not on your side. When you arrive at the police station, do not assume that the police officers will help you set your child free or that they even care if your child goes free. Police officers will not care what a great student your child is or how great his or her performance record has been in the past. Instead, they are only concerned with the facts of the case here and now. Do not disclose anything to law enforcement, even if they attempt to say they are on your side or understand what you are going through. Anything you say could still be used to hurt your child’s case.
3. Be respectful and cooperate as much as you can. While police are not on your side, the worst thing you could do for your child is be disrespectful to law enforcement or appear as though you are not cooperating. While you don’t have to give them every detail, you will need to provide them with your name and identification. You also need to remain calm, regardless of how heightened emotions may be. Always be respectful, calm and polite each time you speak with police – even if you are telling them that they cannot search your home without a warrant.
4. You may have limited rights. As a parent, you may still have limited rights. Sometimes a parent can be present for questioning, but, depending on your child’s age, you may be barred from entering the interrogation room.
5. Contact an attorney. Regardless of what the crime may be, or even if you think your child is innocent, contact an attorney who has experience with juvenile crimes.

Contact a Jacksonville Attorney

If your child or teen has been arrested for a crime, contact The Armstrong Law Group, P.A. today. We can assist you with your juvenile crime case. Schedule a consultation or call us to be there during your child’s interrogation at 904-356-8618. You can also fill out our online contact form with your questions.