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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Many Orange County parents are surprised to learn they can face criminal charges and civil liability for their teenager’s actions. California’s parental responsibility laws have expanded, increasing legal risks for families. Knowing when you might be liable is essential to protect both your teen and yourself. At the Law Office of Katie Walsh, our experienced…
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When a child is arrested in Orange County, it’s more than just a legal matter, it’s often a family crisis. For minors dealing with mental health challenges, being pulled into the juvenile justice system can feel overwhelming and isolating. At the Law Office of Katie Walsh, we understand how high the stakes are. California’s juvenile…
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Each year, hundreds of teens in California are cited for curfew violations, with Orange County law enforcement regularly enforcing these local ordinances. Most parents don’t expect a late-night call from police saying their teen has been stopped, but it happens more often than you think. At the Law Office of Katie Walsh, we’ve guided many…
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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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