What to Do If Your Child Is Arrested for Underage Drinking
Finding out your child has been arrested is a shock, and an underage drinking arrest can be especially confusing. You're likely worried about your child's well-being, facing a tangle of legal jargon, and wondering what steps to take next.
Our criminal defense attorneys at Scaringi Law are here to help you navigate this difficult situation. We'll walk you through the immediate priorities, from securing legal representation to ensuring your child's safety. We'll also explore the potential consequences of the arrest and resources available to you and your teen. Take a deep breath – you're not alone in this. Let's get started on getting your child back on track.
What to Do If Your Child Is Arrested for Underage Drinking in Pennsylvania
First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand the gravity of the situation. Underage drinking is illegal and can lead to severe penalties. Consequences of an underage drinking conviction can include fines, community service, mandatory education programs, probation, and detention in a juvenile facility. Knowing what penalties your child could face can help you prepare for what lies ahead and make informed decisions regarding your child’s future.
Immediate Steps to Take
When you learn that your child has been arrested for underage drinking, staying calm is imperative. This is what you should do immediately:
- Contact the Minor’s Legal Guardian: If you aren't the legal guardian, get in touch with them as soon as possible.
- Understand Their Rights: Ensure the minor knows they have the right to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning. This can prevent them from unintentionally incriminating themselves.
- Gather Initial Information: Find out where your child is being held and the specific charges they face.
Communication with the Minor
Once you have your child back home, approach the situation with understanding and avoid judgmental tones. Here are some tips:
- Listen First: Allow them to explain their side of the story.
- Stay Calm: Express your concerns but avoid shouting or punishment in the heat of the moment.
- Discuss Future Implications: Use this opportunity to talk about the potential long-term consequences of their actions and the importance of making better choices.
Seeking Legal Advice
Consulting a lawyer experienced in juvenile law is crucial for navigating this complex situation. This is why:
- Expert Guidance: A lawyer can provide detailed insights into the legal process and your child's rights.
- Representation: Professional representation can significantly impact the outcome of the case.
Preparing for Court
Understanding the judicial process and preparing for court appearances is essential. Here’s what to expect:
- Initial Hearing: This is when the charges will be formally presented, and your child may enter a plea.
- Gathering Evidence: Your lawyer will work on collecting evidence, gathering witness statements, and building a defense strategy.
- Importance of Attendance: Ensure that you and your child attend every court date. Missing a court appearance can result in additional charges or penalties.
- Possible Outcomes: Be prepared for various potential outcomes, such as diversion programs, probation, or even incarceration.
Long-Term Support
Supporting your child through this experience can help mitigate the long-term impact. Consider these steps:
- Counseling: Both individual and family counseling can be beneficial for dealing with the emotional aftermath.
- Educational Programs: Enroll your child in alcohol education programs to help them understand the risks and consequences of underage drinking.
- Ongoing Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with your child to guide them through making better choices in the future.
An arrest for underage drinking is a serious matter, but if you and your child handle it correctly, this challenging experience can become a learning opportunity for your child that fosters growth and responsible behavior moving forward.
Is Your Child Facing Underage Drinking Charges in Pennsylvania? Get in Touch with Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Today!
At Scaringi Law, we take a hands-on and creative approach to solving criminal defense cases. This means we fight for the best outcome for our clients from the very beginning. If you think you might have a criminal case, call us right away. The sooner you call, the more we can help.
Give us a call at (717) 775-7195 or reach out to us online today to schedule a consultation with our dedicated criminal defense lawyers in Harrisburg, PA.