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...
Juvenile offenses
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...
The dangers of police interrogating children alone
We have our Miranda rights for a reason. They are supposed to protect us from self-incrimination and coercion by state forces. That is why the law deems any confession or statement you made during interrogation without your rights read as inadmissible. The dangers of...
How bullying can escalate to stalking
Bullying is a term we often hear, especially in school settings. Many of us have either witnessed it or experienced it firsthand. It starts with seemingly harmless teasing or exclusion but can become more sinister. Understanding how bullying can escalate to stalking...
New mental health initiative aimed to help juveniles, prevent youth violence.
In a progressive move to promote healthier communities, Seattle unveiled a plan to invest in youth mental health earlier this year. This initiative acknowledges the correlation between violence among juveniles, their involvement in the court system and a lack of...
Understanding the legal process for young offenders with mental illness
The significant increase in the number of young offenders, both in the country and worldwide, is concerning. However, the situation becomes even more complicated when these offenders also struggle with mental illness. Young offenders with mental illness Mental...
When can juveniles face adult charges?
As a parent or guardian, you may wonder about the circumstances under which the legal system can charge a juvenile as an adult. While the juvenile justice system typically handles cases involving minors, certain situations allow prosecutors to try young offenders in...
When to worry about your teen’s misbehavior
Misbehaving and acting out are normal parts of a teen’s development. Young people often test their boundaries and easily fall prey to peer pressure. Their underdeveloped brains make them impulsive and quick to take risks. These risk-taking behaviors are often harmless...
What parents can expect during a juvenile court hearing
As a parent, receiving news that your child has been involved in a juvenile crime can be devastating. You may feel overwhelmed by uncertainty and fear about what lies ahead. However, understanding the juvenile court process can help alleviate some of that anxiety....
Who qualifies for sealing juvenile records in Washington?
Young people who have learned from past mistakes are eager to move forward. In Washington State, individuals can remove their juvenile criminal records from public access for a fresh start. Washington law allows the sealing of several types of juvenile records,...

