Washington, DC asked in Criminal Law and Probate for District of Columbia

Q: My 12 years old involved in painting other people property's, and he witnessed his friends setting something on fire.

We are going to have a meeting at detention center I don't know what's going to happen and do I need a lawyer

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3 Lawyer Answers
Richard Sternberg
Richard Sternberg
Answered
  • Probate Lawyer
  • Potomac, MD
  • Licensed in District of Columbia

A: Yes.

A: I offer juvenile law criminal defense, and that may be the kind of lawyer your child needs. You should discuss the facts with a lawyer. More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website, www.AEesq.com. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.

Sean R Hanover
Sean R Hanover
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Fairfax, VA
  • Licensed in District of Columbia

A: Absolutely! You should not speak with, nor discuss your case, with any government official when a lawyer is not present. In DC, you are looking at delinquency proceedings in Superior Court. These can result in your child being placed under Court supervision, being removed from your home, or being placed in a youth detention facility. This is especially true if there are problems at home, he is not attending school, or is otherwise having problems.

Remember that anything you (or your child) say can be used against you. The police are here to solve crimes -- not help you. You need an individual on your side. If you cannot afford an attorney, you need to demand the government provide one for you, before proceeding to any questioning. If you would like to discuss this further, you may reach us at www.hanoverlawpc.com, or 703-402-2723.

Sean R. Hanover, Esq.

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