Since the pandemic, teens have had to adapt to many changes during and after school. While schools were closed, teens suffered from the absence of sports and other after-school programs. In Pittsburgh, they found new places to spend their time outside of class—including downtown's Market Square.

The teens' after-class meetups in Pittsburgh are usually harmless, but over the past year there have been more frequent instances of teens becoming out-of-control, frequently resulting in the involvement of law enforcement officers. In October 2022 alone, police issued 35 citations to Pittsburgh teens.

Much of the problem appears to stem from the teens' group dynamic. Social pressure among teenagers is not a new phenomenon, but the pandemic has added significant stressors. During the pandemic, kids felt more isolated than ever, turning to social media to relieve anxiety and feel more connected. Unfortunately, the pressure to follow the crowd can lead kids to make decisions they will later regret, including actions that could have criminal consequences.

Teens are at a critical age where they are still forming their identities. Despite feeling more adult, they are still growing and developing. As a result, they are particularly susceptible to peer pressure. Teens often pressure each other to do dangerous or illegal things, such as drinking, shoplifting, trespassing, and worse. In downtown Pittsburgh, they've been stealing from restaurants, harassing workers, and getting into physical altercations.

LLF Law Firm Can Help Your Teen Avoid a Trial

If your child is facing a juvenile proceeding in Pennsylvania, the Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm can help to guide you and your child through the process. It is important to have competent legal representation during the proceeding to ensure the best outcome for your child. The LLF Law Firm Team can advocate for your child to be offered Pre-Trial Diversion Programs, which do not involve a trial.

Pre-Trial Diversion Programs

If the district attorney decides your child may be eligible, they can offer deferred adjudication instead of a trial. This process provides specific conditions for your child to follow, such as community service or counseling. If your child meets these conditions successfully, their criminal record is withdrawn and there is no trial.

Deferred Adjudication

A consent decree is similar to deferred adjudication. Your child is kept under close supervision in their home while committing to certain requirements recommended by a probation officer. If all of these requirements are met, your child can have their criminal record expunged.

Contact the LLF Law Firm Today

If you are concerned about your child's behavior and how it may affect their future, don't hesitate to call the Team at the LLF Law Firm. LLF's Criminal Law Team and the LLF Law Firm have years of experience guiding juveniles and parents through the Pennsylvania legal process, and will help keep your child on the path to a better future.

Call 888-535-3686 today to discuss your teens' case with a member of the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team.