If you find yourself in a position where your child is facing criminal charges, finding the right attorney is crucial.
Children have unique needs and require a defense approach that acknowledges their developmental stage and emotional state. In this blog, we’re going to share about what you should look for when choosing a criminal defense attorney for your child.
Look for an attorney who knows how to communicate with children.
Children communicate differently than adults. They often have a limited vocabulary and may struggle to articulate their thoughts and emotions clearly. This can make it difficult for them to express what happened or how they are feeling. Therefore, it’s important to choose an attorney who is skilled in communicating with children.
Look for someone who is patient, understanding, and able to create a comfortable and trusting environment. An attorney who can effectively communicate with your child will be better equipped to build a strong defense.
Look for an attorney who knows that children have different emotional regulation.
Children regulate their emotions differently than adults. They are more prone to emotional outbursts or withdrawal, and they may have trouble understanding and expressing complex emotions. This makes it essential to find an attorney who can manage and support your child’s emotional needs.
An attorney with empathy and emotional intelligence can help calm and reassure your child, making the legal process less intimidating for them.
Look for an attorney who knows that children don’t always understand consequences.
Children have a limited understanding of the depth of consequences due to their cognitive development. The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and risk assessment, is not fully developed in children and teenagers. This means they often lack foresight and cannot fully grasp the long-term impact of their actions.
An experienced attorney will be able to explain the legal processes and potential consequences to your child in an age-appropriate manner. Simplified explanations and frequent check-ins to ensure comprehension are key to helping your child navigate the legal system.
Look for an attorney who knows that children’s brains are still developing, and this impacts how they respond to stress.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) highlights that “teen brains may respond differently to stress” due to ongoing development. This increased vulnerability can lead to stress-related mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression.
Recognizing stress triggers and practicing effective coping techniques are important for teens dealing with legal issues. An attorney who understands these developmental factors can provide supportive and protective strategies during legal proceedings and collaborate with mental health professionals if necessary.
How to choose the right attorney for your child.
When choosing a criminal defense attorney for your child, it’s important to find someone with experience in juvenile cases who understands developmental psychology and has strong communication skills with children and teens. Look for an attorney with a proven track record of empathy and patience who can also collaborate effectively with parents, educators, and mental health professionals.
We can help.
Our team specializes in juvenile cases and understands the unique challenges that come with defending children and teens. We offer free consultations to help you find the best legal representation for your child.
Contact us today to learn how we can support you and your family through this difficult time.