Legal Question in Family Law in Washington
Parents rights&responsibilities to 16 yr old
Our 16 year old male is very disrepective and disobedient. Minor brushes with the law. Has used alcohol & marjuana in the past. Has a horrific attendance record. We take him to school every day and he still skips, the school seems not to concerned. He's been kicked out of one class and failing all but one. We've counseled with school councelors they recommend substance abuse diversion, they don't want the gov't envolved. We feel powerless. Where can we find our rights and obligations to such a juvenile? What of the Becca Bill?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Parents rights&responsibilities to 16 yr old
As an attorney and a parent of a formerly wayward teenager, I know what you're going through.
You might try an a-risk-youth petition. See http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/rcw/title_13/chapter_032a/ If he violates the order, have him found in contempt and he will be incarcerated, not at your expense.
If you turn him for criminal activity, you will pay for his incarceration unless you, your household residents (like hitting a sibling), or your property is the victim. Thus I wouldn't turn him in for any other crime if you don't want to pay for it.
If you deal with DSHS, be on your guard. They can have anti-parent attitudes even if the kid is to blame.
I wish you the best.
Gary Preble
Olympia
360-943-6960
Gary Preble
Preble Law Firm
2120 State Avenue NE
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