Even one mistake can turn a family’s world upside down. When a teenager is arrested for driving under the influence in Orange County, it can feel like everything is at risk: their freedom, their future, and your peace of mind. Parents often wonder: Will this stay on their record forever? Can they lose their license?…
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Your teen worked hard for good grades, extracurricular achievements, and community involvement. However, one incident can put all that effort at risk when it comes to college admissions. Colleges don’t always see the bigger picture, and juvenile records can unfairly tip the scales against your child. With the right legal support, you can push back…
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When a child gets into trouble, parents often ask themselves: “Am I going to be held legally responsible for this?” In California, the answer is: it depends. Family responsibility laws exist to encourage parental involvement and accountability when a child violates the law. But how far do these responsibilities go—and when do they stop? Let’s…
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Teen drinking might seem like a typical high school issue, but in California, it often turns into a legal one. In 2023 alone, juvenile arrests in the state rose by 23.3%, and many of these were alcohol-related violations. Whether it’s getting caught with a drink at a party, using a fake ID, or being drunk…
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When a minor is involved in a delinquency case in California, restitution hearings play a critical role in determining how victims are compensated for their losses. These hearings can be complex and emotionally charged, especially for families unfamiliar with the juvenile justice system. At Katie Walsh Law, we are dedicated to guiding families through this…
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When your child gets pulled into the juvenile system, it’s easy to feel powerless. Suddenly, strangers are making big decisions about your child’s future, often without knowing anything about them beyond a file. The way the system treats young people isn’t always fair. Sometimes, it focuses more on punishment than understanding what led to the…
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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…
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Discovering that your child has been accused of theft can be a deeply unsettling experience. As a parent, you may feel a mix of emotions—shock, confusion, anger, and even guilt. However, you must approach the situation calmly and methodically. Juvenile theft accusations can have serious consequences, but with the right legal guidance and support, you…
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