The United States Constitution gives each of us the right to remain silent under the 5th Amendment and the right to be represented by an attorney under the 6th Amendment. Teenagers should exercise those rights during a criminal investigation.
The parent can say, "My child is not talking to anyone until the attorney is present." The child can also say, "I want to remain silent until my attorney is present." If requested, the parents and child can still provide biographical information such as the child's name, date of birth, and address without waiving these important rights, but the child should not provide any other information about a crime until after speaking with a criminal defense attorney.
Having an attorney early in the case can help you determine the best course of action. Contact me or go to The Law Office of Kurt Teifke to discuss the details of the case so you will know what you need to do and the child understands all of the pros and cons of each way of resolving the case while fight for the best result. I work hard to increase the chances that the State Attorney's Office in the Seventh Judicial Circuit will drop the charges completely, allow the child to enter the best diversion program available, or file only reduced charges.