All parents dread getting a phone call telling you that your child is in trouble. Unfortunately, even a single bad decision can carry serious consequences. When you get that call, you need to do your best to set aside your fears and frustrations and take control of the situation as soon as possible. You and your child don’t have to face the criminal justice system alone – an experienced criminal defense attorney can help fight for you to get a fair result.
At Luftman, Heck & Associates, we understand how overwhelming it can be to find out your child has been arrested for drugs at school. We provide dedicated and compassionate legal representation to help you navigate this challenging time. More importantly, we fight for your child’s future. If you would like to schedule a free consultation with one of our drug crimes attorneys, call us today at (614) 500-3836, or complete our online form.
Get the Charges in Writing
You want to be sure you get copies of all pertinent legal documents if your child is arrested for a drug crime on school grounds. You want to know exactly what offense(s) your son or daughter has been charged with, and where and when they will need to appear in court. If you’ve already been in contact with the police, they probably provided you with the documents containing your child’s charge(s), but make sure you keep them in a safe place.
Know What Punishment the School Will Impose
Your son or daughter’s arrest could result in suspension, expulsion, or some other disciplinary action at school. Similar to your legal documents, you should request that the school provide a written explanation of the action that’s planned. Then, review your school’s disciplinary policies to make sure that the actions taken are consistent with their written procedures. You also want to find out what your child will need to do in order to return to school, and what limitations or restrictions may be imposed.
Have a Candid Conversation with Your Child
You want to believe that your children will tell you the truth at all times – especially in times of crisis. The reality is that this is not always the case. Your son or daughter may be feeling scared or overwhelmed, and is afraid that they will get in more trouble if they tell the truth.
You need to emphasize to your child that while they need to tell you the truth, they aren’t required to speak to anyone else about it. Law enforcement cannot compel them to incriminate themselves, and school officials can’t force them to admit anything, either.
Contact a Columbus Criminal Defense Attorney
If your son or daughter has been arrested for drugs at school, the most important step is to hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Don’t assume that they will get off easy because they are underage, or that you can persuade the judge or the prosecutor to dismiss the charges. Criminal offenses involving drugs are taken very seriously and prosecuted aggressively, even if it’s a low-level drug offense involving a minor.
Your child’s attorney can help you understand your family’s options, the consequences your son or daughter might face, and what you can expect in terms of results. From there, they can begin formulating the legal strategy they will use to protect your child’s rights and future.
Consider the Consequences
If your child is adjudicated delinquent or deemed an unruly child after their case, they could face fines, community service, and probation. In addition, they will have a drug conviction on their record, which could be the most damaging consequence of all. Such a conviction could result in expulsion, loss of scholarships, and difficulty pursuing higher education.
Call a Columbus Criminal Defense Attorney Today
No one wants to hear that their child has been arrested on drug charges. As difficult as it can be, the best thing you can do is to stay calm and get help. Your son or daughter needs someone on their side who can make sure they get a fair result. Their future is too important to hope that the judge will be lenient. If your child has been arrested on drug charges, contact Luftman, Heck & Associates right away.
Call (614) 500-3836 today, or reach out online to schedule, a free and confidential case consultation.
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