It can be difficult and emotional to see your child struggling with drug addictions. Substance abuse in teens doesn’t just interfere with their education; it can also impact their mental, physical, and emotional state, especially when it involves a controlled substance. Teenagers suffering from addiction can start to cut themselves off from their school, families, and friends. It can be a scary situation because you’re worried about their well-being.
Facing the possibility that your child may also be charged with a drug crime can often exacerbate a situation. Fortunately, you don’t need to handle the criminal charges on your own. A drug crime defense attorney with experience handling juvenile crimes can help handle the charges and may also be able to provide you with resources to support your child as they recover from their substance abuse.
What Is Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse is the consumption of illegal drugs, alcohol, and prescription medications. Possession of certain prescription medications without a valid prescription is illegal and can lead to severe legal consequences. When people overuse illicit drugs, it changes how they think and act due to the effect the drugs have on their mental and physical state. Drug addiction impacts everything from health to a person’s perception of reality and how they handle coping with their day-to-day life. Signs of teen drug abuse may include the following:
- Put distance between themselves and the rest of the family
- Be excluded from social activities
- Be vulnerable to predatory adults
- Be deprived of extra education support or home support
- Targeted by bullies or anti-social behavior
- Cut themselves off from loved ones
- Lie to others to hide the effects
A teen dealing with substance abuse requires a lot of help and rehabilitation. While it’s understandable that Louisiana has strict penalties for minors committing drug crimes, sometimes a teen benefits more from rehabilitation programs and family support. Contact an attorney who can help you give your teen the chance they need to recover.
Controlled Dangerous Substance Laws in Louisiana
In Louisiana, controlled dangerous substances (CDS) are regulated under the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law. This law classifies substances into five schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. Schedule I substances, such as heroin and LSD, have the highest potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. In contrast, Schedule V substances, like certain cough preparations, have a low potential for abuse and do have some accepted medical use.
The law strictly prohibits the possession, manufacture, distribution, and dispensation of controlled dangerous substances. Penalties for violating these laws can vary significantly, ranging from fines to imprisonment, depending on the type and amount of the substance involved. For juveniles, these penalties can also include mandatory rehabilitation programs and community service, emphasizing the importance of addressing substance abuse issues early on.
Understanding these laws is crucial for parents and guardians, as it helps them navigate the legal landscape and seek appropriate legal counsel if their child is charged with a drug crime. An experienced attorney can provide guidance and support, ensuring that the juvenile’s rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Consequences of Juvenile Substance Abuse
Drug crimes of any kind are often serious offenses that can lead to various penalties, such as time in juvenile centers and steep fines. Offenses occurring within a drug free zone, such as near schools or playgrounds, carry enhanced penalties. A juvenile delinquency adjudication can include short and long-term consequences, including the following:
- A student who commits a drug offense for the fourth offense may face expulsion, subject to review by the educational authority. They may be expelled for two years.
- Teens under 17 with a license can have it suspended for one year. Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs can lead to additional legal consequences, including license suspension.
- Can be assigned to an alternative school for ten or more days
- If the teen is receiving supplemental security income (SSI) benefits, they will be withheld by the state. In some cases, juveniles may be sentenced to hard labor as part of their punishment.
- The severity of the offense can influence the likelihood of facing jail time.
- Certain offenses can result in the maximum sentence, which may include lengthy imprisonment and substantial fines.
- Fines for drug-related offenses can reach up to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the crime.
Juveniles charged with drug crimes who are under 17 may face repercussions that also impact their families, such as the following:
- Certain drug crimes may cause their household to be banned from public and section 8 housing
- They may also be banned from public housing for up to three years
- Their entire family can be evicted from their current public housing
- Their parent’s child support payments will be reduced
- Parents may also be held responsible for their child’s financial obligations if the penalties include fines or other restitution payments.
An attorney can help parents find the best solution for their teen drug addiction issues and help them achieve a favorable outcome for any charges they may face.
Juvenile Court Process
In Louisiana, minors charged with drug crimes are processed through the juvenile court system, which is designed to address the unique needs of minors. The juvenile court process typically involves several key steps, including the following:
- Intake: When a juvenile is brought to the juvenile court, the charges are explained to them and their legal guardian. This initial step ensures that both the juvenile and their family understand the nature of the allegations and the potential consequences.
- Detention Hearing: A detention hearing is held to determine whether the juvenile should be detained or released while awaiting further proceedings. Factors such as the severity of the charges and the juvenile’s prior record are considered during this hearing.
- Adjudication: During the adjudication phase, the juvenile is tried to determine their guilt or innocence. This process is similar to a trial in adult court but is typically less formal and focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
- Disposition: If the juvenile is found guilty, the court moves to the disposition phase, where an appropriate sentence is chosen. Sentences can include probation, community service, or placement in a juvenile facility, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Navigating the juvenile court process can be challenging, but understanding each step can help families prepare and advocate for the best possible outcome for their child.
Resources for Juveniles and Families
Dealing with substance abuse and drug crimes can be overwhelming for juveniles and their families, but there are numerous resources available to provide support and assistance, including the following:
- Substance Abuse Treatment Programs: Many organizations offer specialized treatment programs for juveniles, which may include counseling, therapy, and support groups. These programs are designed to address the unique needs of young people and help them overcome addiction.
- Juvenile Justice Programs: Some organizations provide programs that offer guidance and support to juveniles involved in the justice system. These programs can help juveniles understand their legal rights, navigate the court process, and access necessary services.
- Family Counseling: Substance abuse affects the entire family, and many organizations offer counseling services to help families cope with the challenges they face. Family counseling can improve communication, strengthen relationships, and provide strategies for supporting a loved one in recovery.
- Support Groups: There are several support groups available for juveniles and their families dealing with substance abuse. These groups provide a safe space to share experiences, gain insights, and receive encouragement from others facing similar challenges.
By utilizing these resources, families can find the support they need to navigate the complexities of substance abuse and the juvenile justice system, ultimately helping their child achieve a healthier and more positive future.
Work With an Experienced Juvenile Drug Crimes Attorney
Attorney Eric G. Johnson of The John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm has helped juveniles and their families deal with the consequences of substance abuse for over 20 years. Eric understands the importance of carefully evaluating a situation and thoroughly investigating to obtain evidence that can secure a favorable outcome for his clients.
Contact Eric Jonhson today so he can help you get your teen the second chance they deserve. You can schedule a consultation by calling (318) 377-1555 or filling out a contact form.