Was your child arrested in Naples, Florida? For parents navigating the aftermath of a juvenile arrest, it’s important to understand how the juvenile justice system works, what your child’s rights are, and what to expect. An experienced juvenile crime lawyer from our firm can guide you through the process, advocating for your child’s future along the way.
About The Caldarone Law Group, P.A.
At The Caldarone Law Group, P.A., we are devoted to protecting the rights of residents throughout Southwest Florida. Our lead attorney has extensive experience both as a renowned defense attorney and as a former assistant state attorney. His unique knowledge gives him an advantage in criminal prosecutions and allows him to build powerful defenses that protect the futures of children and adults alike. Don’t wait to see how we can help in a juvenile case.
Steps to Take After Your Child Is Arrested in Naples
Florida reported 42,317 delinquency arrests during fiscal year 2024-2025. These arrests involved 26,138 youth. According to the report, 66% of arrested youth in Florida during fiscal year 2024-2025 were aged 15 to 17.
If your child was arrested, it’s crucial to remain calm and remember you’re not alone. An arrest does not immediately result in consequences, and you have time to prepare a plan and make sure your child is safe before moving forward. Seeking Criminal Defense representation can help you understand the allegations, including Resisting Arrest, Arson, Battery, Bribery, or Child Abuse, and determine the appropriate next steps for your child’s case.You should take the following steps after your child is arrested in Naples:
- Find Out Where Your Child Was Taken. Depending on the situation, your child could be released, referred to a diversion program, or taken to the Juvenile Assessment Center. When determining whether detention is warranted for a juvenile offender, a Juvenile Probation Officer completes a Detention Risk Assessment Instrument (DRAI). Florida law limits when and why detention can be used against your child.
- Make Sure Your Child Is Safe. While it is understandable that you would want to know the details of the incident as soon as possible, it is beneficial if you do not immediately interrogate your child about it. First, make sure your child is safe and determine where they are being held. You should then ask for specific details about the alleged offense in question and contact a lawyer.
- Avoid Discussing the Case. Remember that a juvenile investigation can include spoken words, text messages, photos on social media, surveillance camera video, witness testimony, or physical evidence. Avoid destroying evidence and do not contact alleged victims to ask them about the accusations.
- Inquire About the Possibility of Diversion. Not every arrest or allegation results in juvenile adjudication. Juvenile crime laws, such as Florida Statute § 985.12, create pre-arrest citation programs for certain misdemeanors. Each program may require community service hours, restitution, classes, counseling, or other appropriate services.
- Attend Hearings. If a child isn’t released or eligible for diversion programs, they will attend an adjudication hearing where a judge will decide the final outcome. A disposition can include consequences such as community service, probation, or commitment to a juvenile facility.
Hire a Trusted Juvenile Crime Lawyer in Naples Today
When you hire a juvenile crime lawyer from The Caldarone Law Group, P.A., you gain invaluable legal experience, resources, and support that can benefit your child. If your child was arrested here in Naples, do not wait to contact our firm and schedule a consultation. Our team stands ready to advocate for your child’s future.
