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INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
Parents and Child

Information for Parents

Having your child charged with a delinquent offense is stressful. Not just for your child but for you as the parent and we understand the toll it can take on everyday activities. Read below for important information regarding your child in the juvenile justice system and ways that you may be involved.

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For a comprehensive resource on juvenile court, please see A Guide to Juvenile Court for Youth & Parents in North Carolina.

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For a look at common myths and truths regarding your child’s rights during interrogation, please see Youth Interrogation Myths.

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Here is a quick list of things our office wants to  make sure you know so that our defenders can get the best result for your child:

1

Help your child set up an appointment with his/her appointed attorney as soon as possible.

Your child’s attorney’s contact information should be provided on the summons that both you and the juvenile were given. Setting up an appointment quickly will help the attorney to know what information they should begin to investigate prior to going to court. If you just got the information, even a phone call to the attorney is helpful prior to your child’s court date.

2

Allow your child to speak to their attorney without you present.

We understand that sounds like the worst option. However, the attorney has a duty to represent your child’s expressed interest, which means they represent your child’s interests and decisions, NOT the family. As a parent, you can and should actively participate in your child’s defense, but be mindful that the attorney solely represents your child.  As such, it is important to allow the attorney to speak to your child alone to discuss the case. Letting your child meet with their attorney alone is very important because North Carolina only recognizes attorney/client privilege. In other words, if you are in the room while your child is meeting with their attorney, you could be called to testify against your child and jeopardize the attorney/client privilege.

3

Show respect to the Court

We have included a few tips that may assist you in going to court. It is important to note that disruptive or disrespectful behavior could have a negative impact on your child’s case or result in you being held in contempt of court.

Below are some tips for your child’s day in court:

What to wear: The court is a formal place and you should dress accordingly.

It is best to avoid:

  • shorts,

  •  halter tops,  

  • flip-flops, and

  •  any clothing that references illegal or illicit activity (example: no shirts with marijuana leaves or sexually suggestive slogans). 

Your child’s attorney will be glad to answer any questions about court attire and any specific rules related to the particular courtroom you will be attending.

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Arriving at court:

You should arrive at least 30 minutes early to give yourself plenty of time to find the courtroom and to give your child time to speak with his/her attorney if needed.

Before entering the courtroom you should:

  • turn off electronic equipment, including cell  phones, and

  • remove hats or sunglasses, unless for medical or religious reasons.

Do not bring any food or drink into the courtroom.

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While in the Courtroom

While waiting for your child’s case to be called, try to: 

  • stay seating and avoid getting up and leaving the courtroom frequently.

  • keep conversations to a minimum, and

  • avoid using your cellphone or other electronic devices.

It may take a while for your child’s case to be called, so it is best to plan on being in court all day.

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Speaking to the judge:

You will have an opportunity to talk to the judge. Speak clearly and politely.

Do not:

  • address comments to other people in the courtroom

  • point or use abusive language, or

  • raise your voice or shout.

The judge may ask questions or interrupt you. Listen carefully and answer as clearly as you can.

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