Parents should know how Los Angeles handles juvenile arrests, particularly for families facing the juvenile justice system for the first time. When a minor is arrested in Los Angeles, the case is usually handled in juvenile delinquency court under California laws, including the California Welfare and Institutions Code.
Parents must be aware of their children’s rights and possible consequences if the child faces court proceedings, such as probation, community service, or even wardship. A Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can help parents protect their children’s legal rights and work toward a positive outcome.
Understanding the Los Angeles Juvenile Justice System
When a young person is arrested in Los Angeles, their case is typically handled through the juvenile justice system, not adult criminal court.
The goal of this system is often focused on rehabilitation, but serious consequences are still possible. Knowing how this process works can help families prepare for what lies ahead.
Key Features of the Juvenile Justice System
A juvenile delinquency case is heard by a juvenile court judge, not a jury. Instead of being convicted, a child may be declared a ward of the court. This means the court takes responsibility for the youth’s rehabilitation, which can include probation, counseling, or a stay in Juvenile Hall.
Types of Offenses Handled in Juvenile Court
The system handles a wide range of cases. These may include:
- Penal Code 594 PC (vandalism)
- Penal Code 459 PC (burglary)
- Vehicle Code 10851 VC (auto theft)
Cases can also involve cyberbullying, school-related fights, or misuse of technology, including the revenge porn statute. Youths may also face legal issues related to restraining orders, child abuse, or sexual abuse allegations. A Los Angeles sex crimes lawyer can help in those cases.
Long-Term Effects and Legal Protections
A child’s involvement in the juvenile delinquency court can result in a juvenile record, which may impact school, jobs, or housing later in life. However, California law allows for record sealing through a motion to seal and destroy once certain conditions are met.
The juvenile court system in California works under the California Welfare and Institutions Code. Parents and legal guardians should be aware of their child’s rights during court hearings, custodial interrogation, and any time spent in a juvenile detention center. Minors are entitled to legal representation, and a juvenile defense attorney can help guide families through each step.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
The Arrest and Intake Process
When a minor is arrested in Los Angeles, the process begins quickly and often includes contact with law enforcement, a trip to a police station, and possible detention at a juvenile hall. The juvenile court system treats these cases under a separate set of California laws focused on minors.
The intake process starts when law enforcement sends a police report to the probation department. A probation officer reviews the report, checks for any juvenile record, and may interview the youth and their legal guardian. The officer looks at factors like school performance, criminal history, and home environment.
Based on this review, the probation officer can take one of three actions:
- Close the case without action
- Handle the case informally (such as referring to community service)
- Recommend a formal petition filing to the district attorney
Responsibilities of Parents
When a child is involved in the juvenile justice system in Los Angeles, parents and legal guardians play an active role throughout the process. From the first court hearing to the final decision, the court expects parents to be informed, present, and supportive.
Parents are usually required to attend all juvenile court hearings, including the detention hearing, jurisdiction hearing, and disposition hearing. Their presence helps the judge understand the minor’s home situation and level of support, which may influence the outcome.
These are some of the things parents are expected to do:
- Make sure the child appears at all scheduled court dates
- Stay in contact with the probation officer
- Monitor the youth’s behavior, school attendance, and progress
- Assist with transportation to court proceedings and programs
- Keep track of deadlines for tasks like community service or restitution
Legal and Emotional Support
A parent or guardian also has the right to seek legal representation for their child. This includes hiring a juvenile defense lawyer or working with a public defender. Being involved in this decision helps protect the child’s rights, especially during custodial interrogation or the filing of a juvenile delinquency petition.
While minors are not sent to adult criminal court in most cases, it is important to keep in mind that a juvenile conviction can have consequences later in the child’s life. Staying engaged, asking questions, and showing commitment to your child’s well-being are important. The juvenile delinquency court takes parental involvement seriously and views it as part of the solution.
Consult a Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
Having proper legal representation is key to protecting a young person’s rights within the California juvenile court system. A Criminal defense attorney at Simmrin Law Group can help families understand the steps of the process, from arraignment to disposition hearings, and assist in cases involving school issues, restraining orders, or adoption conflicts.
The juvenile delinquency system is designed to focus on rehabilitation, but it still carries real risks. Families dealing with these issues should consider speaking with a qualified criminal defense attorney to explore every option and understand the possible outcomes.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form