Q: What can a parent do to defend themself against a violent teen in Utah?
I was physically attacked by my 14 yr old in front of my 3 little ones. She scratched me up and pulled out some hair before I could get away. I also scratched her in the process of getting away. As soon as I could I got the littles into a bedroom and locked the door, I called 911. When the police came I asked them to take her to a detention center for the night. They told me they did not do that unless she had comitted 2 misdomeaners. Then the cop threatened me with DCFS and the city is now charging me with child abuse. What can I do to defend myself within the perameters of the law? Also, what is the obligation, if any of the police to help me?
A: You need to consult with an experienced juvenile court lawyer. If DCFS opens a court case, you may be able to seek the appointment of a public parental defender.
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