It’s a parent’s worst nightmare: a child is interrogated by police without a responsible adult present. Does it happen? Of course – and if it’s happened to you, the first thing you’ll need to do is talk to a Milwaukee juvenile lawyer who can attempt to do some damage control.
What Rights do Juveniles Have?
Juveniles have the same rights as adults when it comes to having a lawyer present before speaking to police and the right to remain silent when police start asking questions. Kids also have the right to have their parents notified if they’re taken into custody.
The problem arises when kids believe they’re required to answer police’s questions. They could inadvertently say something that can be used against them in court. Unfortunately, police often lead kids to believe that “coming clean” will help them – and in most cases, that’s just not true. Kids who aren’t even being detained may feel like they are.
What to Do if Police Interrogate Your Child When You’re Not There
If police interrogate your minor child when you’re not there, you can’t take back what’s already been said. However, your child’s lawyer may be able to change the outcome; for example, if your child was unlawfully detained or illegally interrogated, there may be legal recourse that helps your child.
Make sure that you provide your child’s attorney with an exact timeline of events, and if possible, the officer’s name.
While no two cases are the same, and only your lawyer can give you case-specific advice, it’s important that you know your child has rights. It’s equally important that you talk to your kids and let them know that they don’t have to answer police, no matter how pressured they feel or what the police promise them, without having you or an attorney present.
