It's long been established that family ties can reduce future recidivism, especially in younger individuals. But how can families keep those ties strong if their child has been sentenced to a juvenile detention facility hours and hours away? For most families, doing so is nearly impossible.
Given current staffing shortages in the state of Pennsylvania, many juveniles are being sentenced to youth centers significantly far away from their hometowns and cities. Currently, 76 percent of counties in the state are one to two hours away from the nearest operational detention center. Another 22 percent have to drive three to four hours – one way – to reach the nearest facility. This is not due to a lack of facilities or space. It's due to a lack of staff. Of the 513 available beds in the state, only 366 are available because of a lack of trained and available staff to work in existing detention and youth centers. That means that more and more youth offenders are being shipped off to cities far, far from the people they love and rely on most.
The Consequences of Distance
Current staffing shortages can negatively impact both youths in placement as well as their families. If money is tight or there is a lack of reliable transportation, it can significantly hinder the ability of families to visit their children. As a result, vital connections with loved ones can become strained – which, research suggests, can lead to problems after release.
Whenever a minor is facing a criminal charge, it is important to retain strong representation as soon as possible to ensure a good outcome – hopefully, one that will not result in placement in a juvenile detention facility or youth center. But given the strong possibility that, in the worst case scenario, your son or daughter might be placed in a facility far away from home, it is even more critical to make sure they have the right criminal defense attorney by their side every step of the process.
The Right Representation, Right Now
Whenever possible, finding a way to prevent your child from entering the juvenile detention system is always your best bet. Given existing staffing shortages, there is no way to know where your child may be placed, which will put additional strain on both you and your child. If your child has made a mistake or gotten involved in a situation that has resulted in legal trouble, it is imperative you help them find good representation with experience in juvenile offenses. The right criminal defense attorney can help your family mount a strong defense while protecting your child's rights throughout the entire process.
When you retain our Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm, you are in a better position to get a good outcome – and make sure your child remains close to home. Contact our Criminal Law Team and the LLF Law Firm today to discuss your case at (888) 535-3686 today.
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