Legal Question in Family Law in California

Sister

My sister is a juvinal dilinquent, however her gaurdian will not turn her in. She is 17 and involved in drugs (possibly dealing), sex with older males (possible prostitution), shop lifting, stealing family cars (never reported), high school dropout, curfue violaions, run-away, breaking and entering, and other law violations. I would like to know if there is anything I can do as her older sister. Do I have ANY rights? Are there any programs I can put her into against her will? Can I call Social Services? Is there anything I can do as a concerned sister? I do not want to find her in the streets dead, and I am afraid that is where she is heading!


Asked on 8/02/03, 11:15 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Lyle Johnson Bedi and Johnson Attorneys at Law

Re: Sister

Although ther is a high risk of her being placed in custody, the penalty for a teen is usually much less severe than it is for an adult. Further the foster parent may be involved in this conduct and if that is the case they should be punished. Think of the long term affects of reporting her and not the short term affects.

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Answered on 8/03/03, 3:25 pm
Dieter Zacher Law Offices of Dieter Zacher

Re: Sister

Unfortunately you have no rights here. I understand your concerns, but, you are not the guardian. You can call social service or have her arrested. But, then you run the risk of her being thrown in juvenile detention and being separated from the family all together. You cannot force her to attend counseling or some other institution. Good luck. Thanks for inquiring.

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Answered on 8/02/03, 5:27 pm


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