Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

rights of juveniles

My son, 12, was accused of sexual assualt on a minor under 8 years old. When the detective called and asked us to bring him in for questioning, I asked if a Lawyer sould be there too, she said ''no need for that''. When he was brought in, my wife asked if she could be present during questioning, the detective replied ''no''. He was arrested after questioning.Right or wrong?


Asked on 11/02/04, 9:55 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Valerie Masters Valerie Masters, P.A.

Re: rights of juveniles

The rights of juveniles and adults concerning interrogation are not that different. If your wife "asked" if a lawyer should be present then the officer was under no obligation to stop questioning. The parent or child must make an "unequivocal" request for counsel. There is no right to have a parent present during questioning. Your son's charge is extremely serious and if you have not retained counsel, you should immediately. I practice adult and juvenile criminal alw in Florida, please let me know if I can assist you. Valerie Masters (561) 659-9410

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Answered on 11/02/04, 11:11 am


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