No parent wants to get a phone call from law enforcement saying their teenager has been arrested and is sitting in jail. Many emotions run through your head including anger, confusion, fear, and anxiety. You are probably asking yourself many questions such as how and why? The most important thing to remember if you find yourself in this situation is to remain calm and get professional legal help right away. You may want to find out more information, and if you attempt to do so, do not try to get your teenager to incriminate themselves or confess to anything. Allow their attorney to handle the police and act as your teenager’s representative.

The following are some tips that you will want to remember if your teenager has been arrested.

Assess the Situation

  1. Remain calm. Staying calm once you receive that dreaded phone call is very important in order to deal with the situation effectively. Do not rush to judgement of your child or law enforcement involved.
  2. Find out what is going on. As soon as you receive the call, head straight to the station. You will need to gather as much information as possible regarding the arrest and the circumstances around it. Try to talk to your child in person but know that your rights are limited. You are able to speak to your child before he or she is interviewed, but you do not have the right to be present during the interview.
  3. Do not try to act as a lawyer. You might be angry with your teenager, but it is important for you to remain calm. Do not attempt to act as their lawyer or do anything that might encourage them to in criminate himself or herself. It’s always best to not say anything until their lawyer is present.

Get Legal Help

  1. Hire an attorney. If law enforcement plan on charging your teenager with a crime, you should hire an attorney that is specialized in Juvenile Law. A Juvenile Law attorney will have more experience in dealing with teens and will work towards a solution that is best for your child, such as counseling.
  2. Share information with your attorney. If you have information that could benefit your teenager’s case, be sure to share it with your attorney. This information will help your attorney argue the case as best as possible. Also, if your child has a learning disability or mental health problem, explain this carefully to your attorney.
  3. Gather documents that support your child. If your child’s case goes to court, gather information that testifies to your child’s character. Examples would be achievements, certificates, and school report cards. Asking for character references from teachers, employers, and neighbors is also a good idea. When requesting references, be honest with the individual you are requesting them from. Consult with your lawyer on what type of documents are appropriate and what isn’t.

Talking to Your Teenager

  1. Address the issue. Your teenager will probably be released on bail which would be a good time to talk through everything with him or her. It may be difficult, but it is important to face the situation head on and figure out a way forward together. The way you react could have a huge impact on how your teenager moves on. Attempt to talk about any underlying issues that could have caused the criminal behavior. It is very important that he or she understands how serious the situation is. If you find that your child is having a hard time talking to you about it, suggest to him or her that they talk to a counselor. Some people find it easier to talk to strangers about their problems and emotions.
  2. Reassure your teenager. Being arrested can be scary and difficult, especially for a teenager. Your child will most likely be feeling fearful and uncertain, even if he or she doesn’t show it. It is imperative that you find the correct balance between making sure he or she understands how serious the situation is and takes responsibility for it and reassuring him or her that there is a way through it. Let your teenager know you will support them and help turn things around. Also reassure him or her that you love them while at the same time letting him or her know their actions have hurt you. Realizing how you have been impacted might help your teenager change.

It is never easy receiving that phone call saying your teenager has been arrested. Many thoughts are running through your head, including what to do next. That is where AAAA Discount Bail Bonds can help. We are available 24 hours to help you understand the next steps, including how to get your teenager out of jail on bond. Contact us at 936-539-4444 so we can help you get your child home where he or she will feel more comfortable and safe.