JUVENILE COURT CASES

If your child finds themself in legal trouble it is a different situation than it is for adults.  Generally, they will start their case in Juvenile Court instead of District Court.  That doesn't mean it will stay there, and there are rules about what cases can, or must, be moved from Juvenile Court up to District Court.  The focus differs in Juvenile Cases, too, with the emphasis being on rehabilitation not punishment.  However, that does not mean there will never be punishment.

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A juvenile case, like an adult criminal charge, can have long-lasting consequences outside of the court system as well.  It may impact your child's rights, require that they be placed on certain registries, and restitution can follow them for years into adulthood.

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There are also potentially consequences for the parents in some cases, with the State having the option to seek restitution from the parents and the Court having the authority to order it.  It may also lead to investigation into the family and a visit from Social Services.

 

Juvenile cases are often viewed as "minor" and not as significant as charges against adults.  However, there are possible consequences that may follow a child for years after into their future and can cause problems for the parents as well.  If you have a child who has found themselves in legal trouble in the Grand Forks area, contact Curran Law Firm today and make sure you are doing all you can to protect yourself and to protect their future.

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