Yes, generally. Rhode Island law requires parental notification when a juvenile is taken into police custody, and parents have the right to be present during questioning. Juveniles also have the right to a lawyer during interrogation. Statements made by juveniles without parental presence or legal counsel can sometimes be challenged and suppressed. If your child is being questioned by police, demand to be present and demand a lawyer immediately. Do not let your child make statements before legal counsel arrives. Many juvenile cases turn on statements the juvenile made without realizing the consequences, often after waiving rights they did not understand.
