Charges
Juvenile charges, for parents
When a child is charged, the parents get the phone call, the paperwork and the worry. Garland represents your son or daughter, and he keeps you in the loop at every step.
School incidents
Fights, threats and items found in a locker that turn into a referral to court.
Shoplifting and property
Theft, damage or trespass charges brought as a juvenile petition.
Charges with friends
Cases where several teenagers were there and only some were charged.
Moving to adult court
Hearings where the State asks to try a teenager as an adult.
Step by step
Juvenile court, hearing by hearing
- 01
Step 1: Detention hearing
If your child is held, a judge decides quickly whether they come home. Garland is there for it.
- 02
Step 2: Petition
The State's written charge. He reads it with you and your child and explains it in plain words.
- 03
Step 3: Options
Many juvenile cases can end in a diversion program, with no finding of guilt.
- 04
Step 4: Hearing
If the case goes forward, a judge decides it. He prepares your child for every question.
Questions
What parents ask
Can I talk to my child's lawyer?
Yes, and you should. What your child tells Garland in private stays private, so some talks will be one to one. You'll still hear the plan and every date.
Will this follow my child into adulthood?
Juvenile records are treated differently from adult records, and many can be sealed or cleared later. He'll explain what's possible in your child's case.
The school wants a meeting. Should we go?
Call first. Statements at a school meeting can reach the prosecutor. Garland can tell you what to say, or come with you.
Do we pay, or does the court appoint someone?
You can ask the court for a public defender, or you can hire a lawyer. Garland's fee is a flat amount for the case, agreed in writing.
Is your child due in family court?
Bring the petition or the summons to a free first meeting. Your child can come too.
The first consult is free; any fee and costs are agreed in writing.