Halloween Tricks: What You Should Know if Your Teenager Gets Arrested

Halloween is a time for candy and costumes. For some teens, it may also be a time for criminal charges. Halloween is one of the most common times of the year that kids and teens get into trouble. Before your child heads out to celebrate Halloween, make sure they, and you, know their juvenile rights.

Who is Considered a Juvenile in New Jersey?

New Jersey considers anyone under the age of 18 years to be a juvenile. Once a child turns 18 years, any crimes they commit will be tried in a normal court.

Is a Juvenile Required to Carry ID?

If you’re pulled over as an adult, the first thing that the officer may ask for is your ID. A juvenile is not necessarily required to carry an ID, especially since most don’t have an ID at this age.

Does a Juvenile Have to Identify Themselves to the Police?

This depends on the reason the police officer stopped or detained the juvenile. It is usually best to follow the officer’s requests to avoid any charges. They may be stopped due to an issue of curfew, which some New Jersey counties have. Additionally, some cities may place curfews on Halloween for teens, and the days leading up to it. 

Can an Officer Detain a Juvenile?

In New Jersey, a police officer can legally detain a juvenile if they think they are a danger to the community. They may also detain them if they think they won’t appear in court after a crime.

Does a Police Officer Have to Notify the Parents?

If a police officer decides to question a juvenile, they should make every attempt possible to notify the parents. Juveniles have the same rights to the Fifth Amendment, which is the right to remain silent and a right to counsel. Juveniles are not always aware of this right, however, and may unknowingly provide information, or give up their right to silence and counsel.

What Can You Expect After Juvenile Charges?

If a police officer arrests a juvenile, they will be scheduled a hearing within 24 hours. During the hearing, the judge will review the details of the crime, and decide if the child can leave, or if they must stay. Regardless of which the judge chooses, juveniles cannot typically be held for more than 21 days. Some crimes may warrant a 30-day hold.

Do Juveniles Have a Right to a Jury Trial?

Juveniles aren’t eligible for jury trials. Instead, their case is heard in front of a Circuit Judge. This may lead to faster sentencing.

How Will Criminal Charges Affect a Juvenile’s Record?

Criminal charges are generally confidential for juveniles. Some crimes, however, may be subject to public information. Additionally, some agencies may uncover this information, even long after they are no longer a juvenile. Criminal charges could affect the child’s college or career opportunities later.

It’s important that your child knows their rights not only on Halloween but the rest of the year too. It can also be helpful if you, their parent, know their legal right too. If they find themselves in legal trouble this holiday, it’s important to protect your rights by choosing the right New Jersey lawyer.

Contact an Experienced Evesham Township Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Teen’s Juvenile Charges in New Jersey

Was your teen arrested or charged with criminal charges in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving them with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending them to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Michele Finizio have successfully represented clients charged with juvenile charges in Evesham Township, Mount Laurel, Willingboro, Pemberton, and throughout New Jersey. Call 856-888-9059 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 9 E. Main St, Moorestown, NJ 08057, as well as an office located in Cherry Hill, NJ.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

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