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 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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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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Minors have a right to privacy, especially when it comes to being questioned by the police. It can be a frightening and stressful experience for anyone to be confronted by law enforcement, especially for a young person. It is important to understand and protect the privacy rights of juveniles during these interactions. As an Orange…
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Diversion programs offer an alternative to the traditional juvenile court process, focusing even more on rehabilitation than other juvenile crime penalties. In contrast, traditional juvenile court proceedings do lead to harsher consequences, like being sentenced to a juvenile detention facility or probation. To further explore Orange County’s diversion program options, don’t hesitate to reach out…
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According to StopBullying.gov, “Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or mean content about someone else” (1). This could include posting embarrassing or humiliating media or information and “revenge porn” or sextortion. At the Law Office of Katie Walsh, we can explain to you the legal nuances of this new crime and, as…
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When a teenager finds themselves facing the juvenile justice system for the first time, the experience can be overwhelming for both them and their family. First-time offenses, often driven by impulsive decisions or peer pressure, don’t have to define a young person’s future. Thankfully, the juvenile system recognizes the potential for growth and offers diversion…
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Mental health disorders are rampant among juveniles who find themselves in the justice system. Disorders such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and conduct disorders are disproportionately prevalent. And the majority of these juveniles have experienced trauma, abuse, neglect or come from challenging socioeconomic backgrounds—all factors contributing to their mental health struggles. Statistics show…
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As a student, you might not think much about your legal rights—until the moment they’re being tested. Whether it’s a locker inspection or a surprise check of your phone, school searches raise serious questions about privacy and fairness. Katie Walsh is dedicated to defending the rights of students and ensuring that educational institutions uphold the…
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