When Child Protective Services (CPS) intervenes, especially in cases involving allegations of sexual abuse, the primary focus is on ensuring the child’s safety. Although a noble cause, these interventions, particularly when officials remove a child from their home,...
Seattle Criminal Defense Law Blog
Will my teen go to jail for sending unwanted texts or emails?
Unwanted texts and emails are more than just annoying; they can be a form of harassment or even stalking. As parents, it is vital to understand the potential impact of these actions on both the recipient and the sender, especially when the sender is your teen. The...
Could a teen’s sudden outbursts potentially lead to assault?
Teenagers often experience emotional turbulence, which can sometimes manifest as sudden outbursts. These episodes could remain harmless but they might escalate into actions that could be legally considered assault. Understanding what constitutes assault and the role...
What happens if your bipolar teenager gets caught shoplifting?
Shoplifting is a serious issue, especially for teens. When someone catches your child who suffers from bipolar disorder, the situation becomes even more challenging to manage. The legal system must balance justice and understand your child's mental health challenges....
ADHD and shoplifting: Why some teens act without thinking
When impulsive behavior leads to legal trouble, it can shake a family to its core. Behind many teen shoplifting incidents lies a complex relationship between decision-making and brain chemistry. Understanding this connection becomes crucial for helping your child and...
Early warning signs of teen stalking: what parents should know
Stalking involves repeated and unwanted attention, harassment, or contact that causes fear or concern for safety. In teens, stalking can manifest through persistent texting, following someone or monitoring their activities online. Understanding what constitutes...
Helping your child with Kleptomania navigate the legal system
Kleptomania, an impulse control disorder, compels people to steal items they don't need. This condition can be particularly challenging when it affects minors, leading to legal complications. Understanding kleptomania and how to navigate the legal system can help you...
Higher risk of false charges for minors on the autism spectrum
As a parent of a child with developmental challenges or autism, you face unique problems in keeping them safe and treated fairly, especially in the legal system. Children on the autism spectrum or with developmental challenges often face false charges because...
How can your child’s adjudication affect them in the long term?
Juvenile court cases can affect a young person’s future for a long time, depending on the type of charge and the outcome. In Washington state, cases in juvenile court are supposed to have a goal of help and rehabilitation, rather than solely punish. However, the...
Can stalking behavior be related to mental health issues?
Stalking is a significant issue that affects many individuals across different communities. It involves unwanted and repeated surveillance or contact that causes fear or distress. Understanding stalking's roots, particularly its connection to mental health, is crucial...