Most parents never imagine their child will be convicted of a crime. When this nightmare becomes a reality, parents of juvenile offenders worry about the impact the conviction will have on their child's future. The stakes for minors are especially high in Pennsylvania because, under state law, juvenile offenders face the possibility of probation, fines, time in juvenile detention centers, and even time in prison.

In addition to concern for their child's safety and well-being, parents of juvenile offenders should also consider the impact their child's conviction might have on their own lives, especially their careers and finances. A knowledgeable attorney can help parents navigate these sensitive issues during this stressful time and help mitigate any potential damage their child's conviction may cause.

How a Juvenile Criminal Conviction Can Drain a Family's Finances

The expenses associated with being charged with, tried for, or convicted of a crime can add up. Time spent away from work to attend hearings and other legal proceedings could mean a significant loss of income, especially for self-employed parents. Additional expenses for travel and childcare expenses during a trial can exceed even the most frugal family's savings. Depending on the nature of your child's offense, you might be on the hook for expensive fines or damages.

Parents may also feel the need to put money aside for the convicted child's future, fearing that the conviction will prevent the child from obtaining an education or employment and leave them unable to support themselves.

How a Child's Criminal Conviction Can Derail a Parent's Career

Because the parent of a convicted juvenile offender may have to be away from their job during the course of the legal proceedings, they may miss deadlines, important meetings, and business trips.

The stress and strain that the conviction puts on the entire family can also cause a parent to be distracted at work, leaving them vulnerable to making critical mistakes that can result in negative performance reviews, missed promotions, or even termination. They may even be unable to do their job at all.

Parents may also worry that their child's criminal conviction might stigmatize them and damage their professional reputation. For example, they may fear that their child's conviction could hurt their chances of being promoted, jeopardize their security clearance, derail their political campaign, or cause their customers to take their business elsewhere.

The Team at the LLF Law Firm Can Help

Experienced attorneys like the LLF Law Firm can be a source of support to parents during this difficult time. Avoiding costly missteps in the legal process and exploring the possibility of sealing or expunging their child's criminal record are just some of the ways the LLF Law Firm Team can relieve parents of the stress they are under so they can focus on their finances and careers.

If your child has been accused of a crime, it's important to be proactive to minimize the damage to your own career and finances. Contact the Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm at 888.535.3686, or submit a confidential online consultation form.