What Parents Get Wrong About Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer
When a child or young adult is charged with a crime, parents often approach the situation with good intentions—but incomplete information. Misconceptions about criminal defense frequently lead to decisions that increase risk instead of reducing it.
“This Is Just a Minor Charge”
Many cases that begin as misdemeanors escalate due to technical violations, additional allegations, or strategic errors. Treating early charges casually is one of the most common regrets families express later.
“We’ll Hire a Lawyer If It Gets Worse”
By the time a case “gets worse,” damage is often done. Early legal involvement can prevent escalation altogether.
“Cooperation Will Make This Go Away”
As difficult as it is to accept, cooperation without counsel rarely benefits the accused. Prosecutors are not required to reward cooperation, and statements cannot be taken back.
Choosing Familiarity Over Experience
Criminal defense is highly specialized. Family attorneys, friends, or general practitioners may not understand the nuances of criminal procedure, local courts, or prosecutorial strategy.
Hiring the right lawyer early is an investment in long-term protection.
About Frank Walker Law
Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.
Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.
If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.