As someone who is facing the prospect of your child being charged with a crime, it can be an incredibly difficult and confusing time. The thought of your child being considered an adult in the eyes of the law is a daunting one, with potential serious consequences. Understanding when children can be charged as adults…
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When your child gets suspended from school, it doesn’t just mean a few days at home. It can affect their grades, their confidence, and even their future plans for college or work. The stress can take a toll on the whole family. But you don’t have to face it alone. In California, students have due…
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When a student is suspended, expelled, or even arrested under a zero tolerance policy, it can feel like everything is spiraling out of control. In California, these policies are often applied harshly, punishing students automatically for certain violations with no consideration for their intent or record. At the Law Office of Katie Walsh, we help…
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When a child with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is pulled into the juvenile justice system, their education plan becomes more than a school document—it becomes part of their legal defense. About 30-60% youth in delinquency proceedings have disabilities like ADHD, autism, or learning disorders. Yet, too often, their needs are either ignored or punished.…
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Social media has become a routine part of life for teenagers. But in juvenile court, it’s often used against them. Prosecutors may pull posts, photos, comments, or even private messages to argue intent, character, or involvement in a crime. A post made in seconds can follow a child into a courtroom, where context is rarely…
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Police questioning isn’t always straightforward—especially for teens. Officers use tactics designed to secure confessions, and teens may unknowingly waive rights or give statements that seem harmless. Suddenly, innocent words can become damaging evidence. As a parent, you should understand how easily your teen’s statements can be misinterpreted. Knowing Miranda Rights helps you intervene effectively. Your…
Continue reading ›When teenagers make mistakes, it can feel like the world is crashing down—especially if the legal system gets involved. But not every case has to end in a courtroom. Juvenile diversion programs offer young people an opportunity to learn from their actions without facing lifelong consequences. These programs focus on growth, accountability, and giving teens…
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A juvenile record can cast a long shadow over your child’s future, far beyond their teenage years. It can impact their ability to access higher education, secure meaningful employment, and even find housing. While mistakes made during youth shouldn’t define a lifetime, the consequences of a criminal record often feel inescapable. Fortunately, expungement provides a…
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Teenagers are particularly vulnerable during interactions with law enforcement. They lack the life experience and confidence to handle high-pressure situations. Without guidance, they may unknowingly waive their rights or incriminate themselves during police questioning. A simple misstep—like answering a question without legal representation—can result in long-term consequences, including criminal charges, a record, or juvenile detention.…
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Your teen’s phone likely holds their entire world—memories, conversations, and connections. But what happens when that phone becomes evidence in a criminal case? Suddenly, private texts, photos, and social media posts are scrutinized and used in ways you never imagined. It’s a situation no parent wants to face, but knowing your rights and taking action…
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