There are plenty of ways for young people to get into trouble with the law. Underage drinking, possession of alcohol, drug possession and DUI, coupled with the youthful desire to experiment.  Parents need to know that normal adolescent development includes rebellion, experimentation and rejection of parental values.  Teens are always trying to become an adult on their own terms.  It all begins around freshman year of high school and becomes a living, breathing entity by junior and senior years of high school.

The bad news, in many cases, is that what was, most likely, a onetime incident or lapse in judgment becomes a criminal case.  What is important; however, is that the punishment fits the crime.  In most cases, the lesson is learned by the time the arrest and booking are completed.  With juvenile arrest or college student arrest for drug, alcohol, mischievous acts, it is imperative that a criminal defense attorney is contacted to help fight for alternative sentencing.  There are so many different facts and situations that are part of these cases and can change the outcome:

  • ADD/ADHD, depression, and learning differences are at an increased risk of being charged with crimes due to their lack of impulse control or mood management with alcohol and other drugs. A lot of times, teens will stop taking their medication (Ritalin, Adderall, Vyvanse) because they are tired of the way it makes them feel.  Some times this will result in teens jumping right into alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs to make them feel normal and happy.
  • Affluent communities see an increase the availability of drugs and alcohol, often called “chronic”.
  • Alcohol is effortlessly available for teens throughout the state of Ohio even with strict laws are in place trying to regulate the legal drinking age.
  • Cocaine has become a growing problem all over America.
  • Heroin and all its different versions are surfacing as a terrible problem in our society. High abuse rates puts young peoples’ lives at risk and put their freedom and future on the line as well.
  • Marijuana may be controversial right now but the use of it for any purpose is banned and using, selling or giving away is a serious offense.

The Bottom Line: If your child has gotten in trouble with the law, it is critical that they get legal counsel with experience in juvenile defense.  With the assistance of the parents and the lawyer, they will hopefully avoid a criminal record.  Each case has specific circumstances and needs to be fully analyzed by an attorney to provide a strategy that will be used to protect the child. With my guidance and legal counsel, I will make every effort to help the child in avoiding making the same mistake again, and to assist in seeking alternative sentencing, plea bargaining and possibly dismissing the charges, based on the circumstances.  Put my number in your mobile: 513-260-2099. Know that I care and will make the case a priority.