Discovering that authorities have caught your teenager with drugs at school can shake any parent to the core. This situation brings serious consequences that could affect your child’s future.
Acting quickly, understanding the potential outcomes and tackling the root causes of this incident are vital during this stressful time.
What could happen to them?
When schools catch teens with drugs, they face various penalties. These consequences can impact both their education and legal standing:
- School discipline: Your teen might face suspension or expulsion, possibly affecting college and scholarship chances
- Criminal charges: In Georgia, juvenile drug possession can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges
- Juvenile court: Georgia law requires minors to appear before a juvenile court judge for drug offenses
- Detention: Georgia allows for the detention of juveniles in drug cases, depending on severity
- Probation: Many first-time offenders in Georgia receive probation and mandatory drug education
- Diversion programs: Georgia offers some diversion programs for eligible juvenile drug offenders
The outcome often depends on the drug type, amount found and if there’s proof of intent to sell. Your child’s past behavior and school rules also play a part in what happens next.
What steps should you take?
After learning about the incident, you need to act fast to protect your child’s future. Here are some steps to consider:
- Contact a lawyer who knows juvenile drug cases
- Talk to school officials to get the full story
- Guide your teen through the process so they don’t say anything that could be used against them
- Look into drug counseling or treatment for your child
- Check out alternative schools if needed
Your response to this crisis can greatly influence how it turns out. Try to stay calm, get all the facts and seek expert help to guide you through this tough time.
Drug incidents at school are no laughing matter, but it doesn’t have to ruin your teen’s future. With the right support and guidance, you can help your child overcome this setback and move forward.