Protecting Your Child's Interests
If a minor makes a poor decision that results in criminal charges, his or her entire future could be in jeopardy. A criminal record can follow a juvenile into adulthood and make life more difficult than it should be.
I am Stephen E. Dawley, a Framingham child arrest attorney with more than 30 years of experience handling difficult cases in the juvenile system and criminal defense matters for both minors and adults. I am dedicated to helping juveniles and their families deal with the fear and anxiety that come with criminal charges.
If your child needs a strong, aggressive advocate, please call me at 508-283-3095 or e-mail my law firm.
Helping You Understand the System
When juveniles are charged with crimes, they face the same kinds of penalties that adults do, though the penalties often have different names. Generally, there are two classifications for juvenile offenders.
Delinquent: A juvenile can be found delinquent (guilty) and face a number of penalties, including fines, counseling, probation or a committed sentence. A committed sentence means that the juvenile is sent to a "secure facility" run by the state's Department of Youth Services. This facility is analogous to a jail.
Youthful offender: A juvenile who commits a felony that involves a danger to others or the juvenile himself or herself can be treated as a youthful offender. Youthful offender designation means the juvenile can be sentenced as an adult, including a full sentence in an adult state prison.
What Can Parents Do?
If your child is facing charges there are at least two important things you should do. First, hire a lawyer who you trust and who has extensive experience with juvenile delinquency laws in Massachusetts. Second, make sure you are present for any hearings that occur over the life of the case. A judge often wants to hear from parents or guardians about how the child behaves at home, at school or in the community at large. The judge will also want to be assured that you can provide the necessary supervision if your child receives probation or a suspended sentence.
I have handled juvenile cases for more than 30 years. I am ready to help you and your child through this difficult time.
Contact an Experienced Framingham Child Arrest Lawyer
If your child has been arrested, it is important to understand what your family faces. To schedule a consultation with me, please call 508-283-3095 or send me an e-mail today.
