What to Do If Your Child Has Been Arrested for Fighting at School

 Posted on March 26, 2021 in Juvenile Crimes

In recent decades, more and more attention has been given to bullying in schools. Teasing, psychological torment, cyberbullying through social media, and other forms of bullying often escalate into physical altercations. In many cases, it is hard to know which individual started a fight at school. Altercations can develop in a matter of seconds and teachers do not always see the circumstances that led up to a child being involved in a fight. If your son or daughter has been arrested and accused of school violence or bullying, it is important to learn about your child’s legal rights and options.

Understand Your Child’s Rights Under the Law

Your child has most of the same basic rights as an adult after being arrested. This includes the right to avoid self-incrimination and remain silent. Anything your child says to the police can be used against them. A child also has the right to contact their parent or guardian after being arrested. When you can talk to your child, encourage them to assert their rights and decline police questioning.

Learn About the Connecticut Pretrial School Violence Prevention Program

As a parent, you are probably worried that your child’s arrest will negatively affect their future. Fortunately, there may be a way to get your child’s charges dismissed. If your child has been accused of physically harming another child or threatening physical violence, they may qualify for the Connecticut Pretrial School Violence Prevention Program. This program aims to educate youth offenders instead of punishing them. To qualify for the program, the student and their parents or guardians must swear that they do not possess drugs, firearms, dangerous weapons, or other illicit materials. The student must also consent to extending the statute of limitations for the case. The program lasts one year and involves group counseling and lessons in anger management and conflict resolution. If the student finishes the program, the charges against them are dismissed and their record is sealed. This means that the record will not be visible to the general public.

Contact a Stamford Juvenile Defense Attorney

If your child has been accused of physically harming or threatening another student, contact the Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner. Our Connecticut juvenile defense attorney can protect your child’s rights, explain your child’s legal options, and provide tenacious legal representation and advocacy. We are qualified to represent your child during legal proceedings as well as school disciplinary proceedings. Call 203-348-5846 for a free, confidential consultation.

Source:

https://www.cga.ct.gov/2017/TOB/h/2017HB-07288-R00-HB.htm