Can I Keep a Drug Charge Off My Child's Record?

At Grabel & Associates, our Michigan drug crime lawyers understand that no parent wants his or her child to have a permanent criminal record because of a mistake the child made as a juvenile. A criminal record will impact your child's ability to secure employment, and frequently makes it difficult to obtain student loans and other financing. Our team works vigorously to protect juveniles from the negative impact a criminal record can have in regards to a child's future, reputation, and career.

Our Approach to Protecting Juveniles from a Criminal Record

There are a few options that may make it possible to prevent your child having a criminal conviction on his or her record. Certain offenses may make it possible for our firm to have your child placed on the consent calendar, which essentially means that he or she does not enter a plea; however, both the parent and juvenile must agree to this arrangement. When placed on the consent calendar, the juvenile must complete certain terms within a specific time period in order to avoid a court proceeding or criminal charge being applied to his/her record. Additionally, if placed on the consent calendar the juvenile may have fingerprints returned, or even avoid fingerprinting altogether.

HYTA (Holmes Youthful Trainee Act) Sentencing

HYTA may be an option for children ages 17 to 20 who are arrested for committing a crime, and is essentially a type of probation wherein your child must successfully complete the youthful trainee probationary term, taking responsibility for his or her actions.

The Holmes Youthful Trainee Act, under Michigan law, recognizes that young people are often greatly benefited by the opportunity to have a second chance. However, it is important that you have the guidance of a skilled criminal defense lawyer with a thorough understanding of and experienced with the intricacies of HYTA.

In order to qualify for HYTA, your child must plead guilty to the crime; there are also offenses that do not qualify for HYTA, including certain sex and drug offenses, some traffic offenses, murder, kidnapping or other crimes where the penalty is life in prison. It is important to note that a sex offense such as third-degree criminal sexual conduct or statutory rape may be eligible, which means your child could avoid not only a criminal record, but being required to register as a sex offender as well.

You should be aware that HYTA may not be right for every situation, as your child will be required to comply with specific court demands and must complete various terms of probation when placed on HYTA status. Additionally, the courts may deny your request for HYTA status if your child has a prior conviction, has been charged with a felony offense, or has previously been granted HYTA status.

If your child has been arrested for a criminal offense, it is critical that you contact the Michigan criminal defense firm of Grabel & Associates for guidance and legal support. Our years of experience advocating on behalf of youthful offenders make us an intelligent choice; we are dedicated to fighting for your child's rights, and will work to determine whether there are options to keep a drug charge off of your child's record.

We are available 24/7, and ready to provide you with unsurpassed legal representation. Call us now at 1-800-342-7896 or contact us online for a free consultation.