Over the past several years there has been an increasing trend toward the criminalization of school discipline. That’s a fancy way of saying that getting in trouble in school often results in criminal charges, instead of just being handled by the school.
This happens in part due to having police officers in school, but it’s also due to the seriousness with which schools, school administrators and teachers treat incidents on (and off) school property. This increase in criminal charges for students catches many parents by surprise because it’s a very different approach than when they were in school.
For many parents, school discipline meant being sent to the principal’s office and punishment options included a lecture, detention, suspension or expulsion. Today, fighting, pranks and similar “high school hijinks” are likely to result in criminal charges — even felonies in some cases.
If you are a parent and your child gets in trouble at school, the police and juvenile court system may be involved very quickly. One of the best ways you can help your child is to get an experienced juvenile defense attorney and advocate on your side as soon as possible. Even if you’re not sure you need a lawyer, give us a call right away.
Juvenile criminal defense attorney Jerrell Johnson is a former police officer and school resource officer and he understands the process and what may be at stake. Call today, or contact us, for a free, no-obligation consultation, 757-455-9277.