New Jersey Juvenile Defense Lawyers Discuss Weapons on School Property

Due to recent events involving violent crimes on school campuses, many districts are starting to take weapons on school property more seriously than ever before. Many items that one would not normally consider a weapon can now cause an otherwise star student to be slapped with criminal charges and a record that will affect their future.

Laws ban obvious items like firearms, blunt instruments, and knives. But in some cases, students carrying scissors, pocket knives, craft cutting tools, and other household items have been arrested and charged with a juvenile crime in New Jersey. These incidents cause problems for the schools themselves and of course, the student or juvenile charged with the weapons offense. Many laws regulating weapons on school property are federal laws, so charges may be counted as felonies.

School Safety Measures and the Fourth Amendment

Another issue often brought up is the legality of searches performed by administration at school. While the Fourth Amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches, reasonable suspicion of weapon possession is enough to permit a warrantless search by on-site officers or school personnel. “Reasonable suspicion” is the key term here, and this must be based on definite facts, not just schoolyard rumors. Every municipality has different regulations regarding student searches, including some that utilize metal detectors, so it is important to understand the rules of your school district. If you are uncertain about the legality of a search or seizure, consult an attorney to help you defend your rights.

New Jersey Juvenile Defense Lawyers at The Law Offices of Michele Finizio Can Defend Your Child’s Rights

In many of these cases, juveniles with no malicious intent are suddenly thrown into the hard to navigate and intimidating legal system, fighting for their names and futures. These juveniles and their families should seek out a criminal lawyer with the right experience to defend their cases in juvenile or adult court. If you are seeking a criminal lawyer in Camden County, a legal consultation with the Law Offices of Michele Finizio will help you understand your rights and how to arrange the best defense for you or your child. Located in Moorestown, our offices proudly serve clients in Camden County, Burlington County, Salem County, and Gloucester County. Our website offers an online form that will put you in touch with our team of New Jersey juvenile defense lawyers. You can also call 856-888-9059 to learn more.