JUVENILE DELINQUENCY     top

Children ages 7 to 16 accused of criminal offenses are charged as delinquents or youthful offenders in Juvenile Court.  The juvenile delinquency system is distinct from the adult criminal system.  There are special laws and rules.  People who work in the Juvenile Court, including judges, Assistant District Attorneys, and probation officers, take a unique approach to cases.  Consequences are different for juveniles than for adults.  You need a specialized delinquency attorney who understands this whole picture and who understands all the other unique aspects of the Juvenile Court.


SPECIAL EDUCATION     top

Students with disabilities are entitled to services and accommodations that would provide them a free and appropriate education under state and federal special education laws.  Some districts honor these obligations more scrupulously than others for whatever reason.  Legal representation is often necessary for special education students to receive what they deserve, whether the issue is eligibility or who foots the bill for services or the type of services.


STUDENT DISCIPLINE     top

Student discipline is a huge concern for parents when their children are to be suspended or expelled.  Many families do not know that children are often entitled to a hearing in this situation.  Having an attorney involved is essential.  Children with delinquency charges in Juvenile Court often have related discipline concerns.  Schools may attempt to suspend or expel students who are charged with felonies in Juvenile Court and those who commit certain disciplinary violations at school.  Special education students are entitled to additional rights under federal and state laws.

I also represent clients in higher education suspension and expulsion matters.  So much is at stake, both financially and academically, that an attorney is essential at this level.

CHILDREN IN NEED OF SERVICES (CHINS)     top

Children in Need of Services (CHINS) cases are based on status offenses.  School-based CHINS petitions are filed by schools when students are alleged to be chronically absent and when students are alleged to be habitual school offenders.  Home-based CHINS are filed by parents and guardians when children are not following the rules of the home or when they runaway from home.  The Department of Children and Families may be given custody of your child through the CHINS.


DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES (DCF)     top

The Department of Children and Families (DCF) was formerly DSS.  For many families, DSS is a dirty word.  DCF is required to investigate allegations of abuse and neglect, though that does not mean DCF believes outright that there is something wrong.  Understandably, families are scared of the potential outcome of the process.  They do not understand what to expect during the investigation.  If you receive an unfavorable outcome then you may appeal the decision through the Fair Hearing process.  At that point you may then appeal to the Superior Court.  I represent clients at every stage.

CRIMINAL     top

Young adults and people with mental health issues are often wrongly accused or accused of minor criminal offenses that should not have lasting consequences for them.  Many of these cases are based on a misunderstanding or on the police response to a call for help.  Cases may be dismissed and consequences may be minimized for clients in these populations.

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE     top

Buying or selling your home is a legal transaction.  You want to make sure that you are protected legally and that the purchase or sale is done appropriately.  I represent both buyers and sellers in all steps of the process.

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The information on this site is not legal advice. Consult an attorney before making a decision about your legal rights.