Juvenile Law

Ann Carey and Linda Lillevik are passionate about juvenile justice. Ann Carey has represented juvenile clients for over 20 years. She has learned how to listen and assist clients to establish high goals for their lives. Due to her excellent work, the State recognizes her as a leader in juvenile justice.

Because juveniles are under the age of 18, the juvenile system emphasizes rehabilitation. The system holds youth accountable and attends to their unique needs and the needs of the community. Juvenile court encompasses a variety of cases, including:

• Truancy
• At-Risk Youth (ARY)
• Children in Need of Services (CHINS)
• Dependency
• Juvenile offender matters
  

Juvenile court can positively or negatively affect a youth’s future. Attorneys that practice in juvenile court must skillfully work with young clients at various stages of their development. Carey & Lillevik attorneys have established relationships in the community that lead to improved results for clients. Our firm employs a holistic model of juvenile representation and seeks not only better outcomes, but better lives. At Carey & Lillevik, we integrate emerging research in adolescent brain development and effective juvenile programs into our youth advocacy.

Juvenile Justice

Because of Washington State’s emphasis on juvenile rehabilitation, there is a greater range of options available to juveniles, and they can avoid the stigma of an adult criminal conviction. For example, there are programs for low-level offenses that can keep juveniles out of court. Also, eligible juveniles can petition the court to have their records sealed.

Felony

Although there are some benefits to juvenile court, a guilty verdict is extremely serious. Consequences of pleading guilty or being found guilty of a felony include:

• Loss of right to possess a firearm
• Requirement of a DNA sample for state and federal authorities

These consequences limit many young people’s hopes to join the military or pursue other careers in public service.

Alcohol and Drug Offenses

Juveniles who commit alcohol and drug offenses can:

• Have their drivers licenses suspended
• Lose the ability to receive federal college loans
  

Sex Offenses

Perhaps most significantly, juveniles who plead guilty or are found guilty of sex offenses must:

• Register as sex offenders with the county sheriff’s office
• Notify school, neighbors, and other communities

Violent Crimes

In cases of serious violent crimes, or in cases where a juvenile has a history of committing numerous crimes, the juvenile can face confinement at Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration (JRA) up to age 21. In other cases that involve violent crimes, a juvenile may be transferred to the adult system.

Carey & Lillevik attorneys can address any matter in juvenile court. Some examples are:

At-Risk Youth

A youth’s behavior can concern a parent, yet is not criminal. Such behavior can involve:

• Running away
• Drug use
• Suspected criminal activity

Parents and guardians can file an At-Risk Youth (ARY) petition. If the court finds the youth to be at risk, the court can impose and enforce conditions, such as school attendance, drug treatment, curfew, and follow home rules.

The attorneys at Carey & Lillevik can assist parents to determine whether filing an ARY petition is appropriate for each unique situation. If you decide to pursue the petition, we can:

1. File the petition
2. Represent you in court
3. Navigate you through the system

Conversely, some parents or guardians may file an unwarranted ARY petition. Carey & Lillevik can represent this individual in ARY hearings.

Child in Need of Services

Another option for parents and children that face significant conflict at home is to file a Child in Need of Services petition (CHINS). Either a child or the child’s legal guardian may file the petition; this petition can request a temporary out-of-home placement or other services for the child. Carey & Lillevik is committed to the welfare of children and finding the best solution for all parties. The attorneys have years of experience helping children and parents resolve conflicts at home through alternative living arrangements. We are familiar with the CHINS process and can represent you to create options for you and your loved ones.