Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

Question concerning police questioning of minor/juvenile son

I understand that in our state, juveniles at the age of 17 may be charged as an adult. Is there a law protecting a seventeen year old from being pulled out of class, in school, to be questioned by a police officer concerning an alleged crime (in which the 17 year old is a suspect)without a parent present? Does reading a seventeen year old his miranda rights constitute sufficient warning of his rights? Thank you in advance for any answers I may receive...


Asked on 9/13/02, 2:01 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Nancy Moore Nancy L. Moore, Esq.

Re: Question concerning police questioning of minor/juvenile son

Yes, a 17 year old is considered an adult and Miranda applies. No adult need be present for questioning. If he is a suspect, you should hire an attorney for him as soon as possible.

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Answered on 9/13/02, 3:12 pm
William Morrison Action Defense Center

Re: Question concerning police questioning of minor/juvenile son

You are correct. 17 is the awkward age in Michigan as your son is considered an adult for criminal prosecution but is still a "juvenile" for most other purposes.

Yes, he may be pulled out of class to be questioned by a police officer. The fact that he was read his Miranda rights (which is a sufficient warning) indicates he has been or is soon to be arrested. Most police officers will have your son sign a document indicating that he has been read his rights before proceeding with the questioning. He is not given a copy.

To keep him from further harm (he may hurt his chances for a college education or a good job if he is convicted), an attorney can keep his record clean and insure all his rights are protected.

You should contact an attorney before your son has any further contact with the police.

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Answered on 9/13/02, 3:51 pm


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