What to Do if Your Child Was Arrested in Pierce County, WA

When Your Child Faces Criminal Charges in Tacoma, WA

One of the most heart-wrenching experiences a parent can face is seeing their child accused of a crime. In that moment, many parents think, “I wish it were me instead.” The household is often thrown into emotional chaos. Fear and worry dominate—but they may be mixed with feelings of disappointment, confusion, or even anger. As a parent, your instinct is to protect, but when the accusation involves the legal system, you need someone who can guide you and your child through it.

At Smith & White, we have helped families across Tacoma and Pierce County through juvenile defense cases. We understand that this isn’t just about legal strategy—it’s about your child’s future. It’s about ensuring one mistake doesn’t define the rest of their life.

The Purpose of Washington’s Juvenile Justice System

Washington law recognizes that children and adolescents do not have the same decision-making abilities as adults. Their brains are still developing, particularly in areas related to impulse control and risk assessment. Because of this, the juvenile justice system in Washington State focuses on rehabilitation, not punishment.

Historically, this has meant that juvenile courts are more likely to recommend community-based programs, treatment, and education. Many of these programs operate in collaboration with schools, counseling centers, and family services.

However, over the past decade, we’ve seen a concerning shift. Prosecutors—particularly in serious cases—are more frequently attempting to move juveniles into the adult system through a process known as declination.

What Is Declination?

When a prosecutor believes the charges are serious—especially when the case involves violence—they may file a motion asking the juvenile court to decline jurisdiction. This would send the case to adult criminal court.

In some cases, declination is mandatory. For example, in Washington State, a juvenile 16 years or older must be tried as an adult for certain crimes such as:

• First-degree murder

• Second-degree murder

• Some felony sex offenses

• Armed robbery with a firearm

This is not just a procedural shift. Being tried as an adult dramatically increases the consequences your child may face.

Why It’s Critical to Keep the Case in Juvenile Court

If your child is tried as a juvenile, the focus will remain on accountability with the opportunity for rehabilitation. But if their case is transferred to adult court, the consequences escalate sharply:

• Longer prison sentences

• Loss of privacy protections (juvenile court records are sealed; adult records are public)

• Permanent criminal records

• Reduced access to age-appropriate education and counseling

Our firm’s priority in juvenile cases is clear: fight to keep the case in juvenile court.

Example Case Scenario

Let’s say a 16-year-old high school student in Tacoma is involved in a fight that results in serious injury. No weapons were used, and there is no history of violence. The prosecution argues the assault was intentional and files for declination.

At Smith & White, our attorneys would build a defense focused on the student’s background, age, remorse, and potential for rehabilitation. We’d highlight their academic history, family support structure, and willingness to participate in therapy or anger management. If successful, we could keep the case in juvenile court—potentially avoiding a life-altering felony conviction.

Addressing Common Reactions from Parents

Many parents—understandably upset—might say, “If my kid did the crime, maybe they should face the consequences like anyone else.” That’s a valid perspective. But there is a difference between justice and over-penalization.

Juvenile court doesn’t eliminate responsibility—it adjusts it to be age-appropriate.

Another common concern is, “Won’t a tougher sentence make them learn their lesson?” Unfortunately, research does not support this assumption. In fact, studies show that:

• Juveniles tried as adults are more likely to reoffend.

• They often receive longer sentences but serve less time due to plea bargains or early release programs that are unavailable in juvenile court.

• Exposure to adult correctional environments can worsen behavior, not correct it.

Instead of being “scared straight,” many youths are hardened by adult prison experiences.

Why Prosecutors Still Push for Adult Charges

Prosecutors argue that trying teens as adults deters other youth from committing crimes. But that theory hasn’t held up in real-world data. Juvenile crime rates have not decreased in areas that apply harsher penalties. In contrast, rehabilitation programs—especially those involving family and education—have been linked to significant reductions in recidivism.

So why do prosecutors pursue adult charges anyway?

• They want to show toughness on crime to the public.

• They believe it gives them leverage in plea negotiations.

• They think adult sentencing options offer more “control.”

Our job is to remind the court that these cases involve children, not miniature adults.

Our Role as Your Child’s Defense Team

At Smith & White, our attorneys step in immediately to:

1. Investigate the facts of the case thoroughly.

2. Push back against any move to decline juvenile jurisdiction.

3. Gather mitigating evidence to show your child’s potential for rehabilitation.

4. Represent your family in court with respect, urgency, and compassion.

If the court decides to allow the case to be heard in adult court, our defense strategy will pivot. We’ll focus on minimizing the charges, reducing the sentence, and preparing for the possibility of record sealing in the future. The earlier you contact us, the better chance we have to shape the direction of the case.

What About Guilty Youth?

Some families worry that calling a defense attorney means they’re trying to “get away” with something. That’s not how we operate. Our role is not to excuse criminal behavior—but to ensure that your child’s rights are respected and that the justice system does not make a bad situation worse.

Even when guilt is not in dispute, we can help:

• Negotiate reduced charges

• Advocate for diversion or treatment programs

• Avoid long-term consequences like a permanent record

A mistake shouldn’t ruin a lifetime.

Hypothetical Illustration: Composite of Real Cases

In a recent hypothetical scenario modeled after real cases, a 16-year-old in Pierce County was arrested for serious felonies after being pressured by older teens. With no prior record and a strong academic record, the family came to Smith & White worried after the prosecutor sought adult charges.  Thankfully, Smith & White are very experienced in adult court as well.  Our team provided early advocacy, working with social workers, the school counselor, and character witnesses to demonstrate this was a one-time mistake, not a pattern of behavior. The court mitigated the sentence down, as if the client were still in juvenile court.  Today, that client is on track to graduate from high school and then to attend trade school.

Call Us Today

If your child has been accused of a crime in Tacoma, WA or anywhere in Pierce County, do not wait. The juvenile justice process moves quickly—and decisions made early can affect the outcome for years to come.

Facing a juvenile criminal case in Tacoma? Don’t let your child face it alone. Contact Smith & White, PLLC today for a free consultation. Let us help you protect their future.