At Brissie Law Office, we understand that nothing is more important than your child’s safety—and their future. If your teen is stopped by police, knowing how to respond calmly and legally can prevent the situation from escalating and protect your child’s rights.
Here’s what both parents and juveniles in Ohio need to know.
1. Stay Calm and Respectful
For juveniles, the first rule is simple: remain calm. Police encounters can be intimidating, but staying respectful can go a long way. Avoid arguing, shouting, or making sudden movements.
What to say:
- “Yes, officer.”
- “No, sir/ma’am.”
- “Am I free to leave?”
Parents should also stay calm if they arrive at the scene. Do not confront the officer or escalate the situation in front of your child.
2. Provide Basic Information Only
Under Ohio law, juveniles must provide their name, address, and date of birth if asked by police. If they are driving, they must show their driver’s license. Beyond that, they are not required to answer any further questions.
What to say:
- “I’m providing my name, address, and date of birth.”
- “I choose to remain silent beyond that.”
3. The Right to Remain Silent
Juveniles have the same constitutional rights as adults. They do not have to answer questions about where they’re going, who they’re with, or what they were doing. Teach your child to say:
“I want to remain silent. I would like to speak to a lawyer.”
This simple phrase activates their rights and stops police questioning until an attorney is present.
4. Ask for a Parent or Guardian
Police in Ohio are not required to notify a parent immediately during a stop, but if the juvenile is taken into custody or questioned, your child has the right to request a parent or lawyer.
Parents’ tip: If your child is detained or questioned, ask to be present and consult an attorney as soon as possible.
5. Never Consent to a Search Without Understanding the Consequences
Police may ask to search a juvenile’s backpack, phone, or belongings. A child can say:
“I do not consent to a search.”
Police may still perform a search under certain conditions, but denying consent may be important if legal action arises later.
6. Never Resist or Flee
Even if your child feels they are being treated unfairly, they must not run, resist, or become physically aggressive. Doing so could result in additional charges or place them in physical danger.
Teach them to:
- Keep hands visible.
- Follow instructions.
- Ask calmly, “Am I under arrest?”
7. Document and Follow Up
If your child is stopped or detained, write down everything you can remember: names, badge numbers, time of day, and location. Save any relevant videos, photos, or messages.
Then, contact an experienced juvenile defense attorney immediately. A police stop, even without an arrest, can have long-term effects if not handled properly.
How Brissie Law Office Can Help
At Brissie Law Office, we help protect the rights of young people across Ohio. Whether your child was stopped, searched, or charged, we will guide your family through the legal process with compassion and expertise.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation and peace of mind.