As children grow into young adults, they often begin experimenting with what they perceive as grownup behaviors. Unfortunately, many of these activities are illegal both for children and for adults. While kids will certainly be kids, engaging in juvenile crimes can send them down a troubled path. Even worse, it is sometimes difficult for these youths to deviate from this path once they have been processed through the legal system.
Moving smoothly into adulthood is difficult enough for Massachusetts teens without having one or more black marks against them. Making a few youthful mistakes should not continue to affect the lives of young adults when they reach maturity. As such, it is wise for parents to get involved right way if their teens face charges for juvenile crimes. Contact a defense lawyer early on so that you can protect your children from the long-lasting effects of the following common criminal charges.
- Offenses involving theft
- Vandalism or graffiti charges
- Disorderly conduct or fighting
- Offenses involving alcohol
- Offenses involving marijuana or other illegal substances
- Traffic offenses
- Weapons charges
- Assault, battery or bullying
- Trespassing onto private or public property
- Burglary or breaking and entering
In the end, it is worth your time and your effort to make sure that your child is ready to enter adulthood with a clean, fresh slate. In many cases, the scare of facing criminal charges is enough to deter your teens from making the same mistakes more than once. Working with a lawyer who knows how to defend youths against juvenile crimes gives your teen a wonderful opportunity to start adult life with a clear record.