It is not uncommon in the process of growing and maturing that a minor may have some contact with law enforcement. The law deals with the state of mind of an accused person. Since the judgment centers of the brain are slower to develop than other parts of the brain, it can be vital to carefully evaluate whether developmental factors have caused the child to act in an impulsive, reckless manner. Especially in juvenile court, there is a willingness to take this reality into consideration when trying to determine the best course of action in a child’s juvenile court matter. In addition to developmental factors, conditions such as ADHD and bipolarity can significantly impact behavior, resulting in juvenile court intervention.

Schedule your appointment today by calling (408) 277­-0377

Representation That Seeks Creative Options As An Alternative

Our team at the Law Office of Wesley Schroeder believes that when your child is facing juvenile court charges, every possible cause should be investigated, understood, and clearly heard. When there is a developmental issue or mental condition in question, we will aggressively pursue other options for the judge to consider as alternatives to custody.

Types Of Juvenile Mental Conditions

Some mental disorders, such as bipolar disorder, have been directly linked to causalities for crimes committed by juveniles (see next section). Still many other mental disorders with varying degrees of behavioral effects could have a connection with what may have caused your child or teen to choose the actions that brought on his or her case. Some common juvenile mental conditions include:

• Anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety disorder, various phobias, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and panic disorders
• Mood disorders, bipolar disorder and clinical depression
• Personality disorders, which include maladaptive personality characteristics, such as paranoia, obsessive compulsive personality disorder (OCPD)
• Developmental behavior disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Autism spectrum disorders, including Asperger Syndrome
• Addiction Disorders which would include substance abuse and behavioral addictions

Substance Abuse And Bipolar Disorder in Minors

According to a case-­control study (as reported by Medscape Medical News), young people with bipolar disorder were found to be at a much higher risk for substance abuse disorder. This would include alcohol and drug abuse use and dependence. In addition, the study showed that it is bipolar disorder that is most associated with this risk; the conduct itself is a very real product of the bipolarity. If your child has been accused as a juvenile, and you know of a mental disorder or suspect one might be at play, do not hesitate to speak with our experienced team of California Juvenile Law professionals. When we take a juvenile case, our goal is to pursue the best possible outcome for the child or teen and his or her family. If mental conditions are at play, we will employ four decades of experience to make the case for constructive and viable options for your child.

Contact Us

Call (408) 277-­0377 or contact us online to schedule an appointment with our firm and let us get started on your case today. Our team of skilled professionals is ready to provide the highest quality representation for you and your family. Call for the advocacy of the Law Firm of Wesley Schroeder today. We believe each young adult, each parent, and each case is unique. We want to hear from you.