{UAH} When Minor Crime is a Big Deal

When Minor Crime is a Big Deal

What are the differences between Children's Court and the ordinary Criminal Court?

The purpose of the Children's court is to rehabilitate young offenders and help them resume appropriate behaviour in society and avoid future run-ins with the criminal court system. This does not mean, however, that children cannot be punished for their offenses. In fact, children can be punished by requiring them to do community service, attending drug and violence rehabilitation classes, and sometimes, they are sent to prison when the crime is serious.  

In the children's court, the public is not allowed to attend the hearings. Trials are private and no other person, apart from the court may record the proceedings.

If your child is facing a criminal charge, please engage legal counsel for them.

What should I do if my child has been accused of a crime?

The first thing you should do is consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Engaging a lawyer does not mean that you think your child is guilty, that you don't believe in the system, or that you do not want your child to suffer the consequences of their actions. Instead, engaging a lawyer protects your child from hard prosecution which may lead to unfair punishment. In court, the job of the police and the prosecutor is to present a case against your child. The role of the judge is to evaluate evidence presented before him.

What should I do if my child has been accused of a sex crime, or I think they may have committed a sex crime?

As a precautionary measure, remove your child from any situation which may be problematic. Specifically, prevent your child from being alone with other minors. This will help to protect your child from any other accusations.

Then, have your child speak to a lawyer, first. Whereas councillors, the police and religious leaders are good people to talk to, it is important that your child speaks to an experienced lawyer

Can the police officer speak with my child without my knowledge or permission?

Yes. The police are mandated to question anyone, children included. However, their questioning must be subject to reasonable suspicion that the person witnessed or participated in the crime. Questioning your child does not mean that your child is accused. Remember, your child also has rights just like the adults when being questioned by the police. These rights include the right to remain silent, and the right to legal representation. We have written widely on the rights of an accused person.

Is a parent financially responsible for a child's illegal acts or court fees?

It follows that when a child is required to pay bail or to pay a fine or compensation for their wrongs, their parents may be the ones to meet those costs.

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"When a man is stung by a bee, he doesn't set off to destroy all beehives"

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