“No one among my friends would understand.”
I doubt that is true. If you have a true friend they will understand what you are going through, or even if they don’t actually “understand” it, they will still be supportive of you, if they are true friends.
I think the points that everyone is making about lawyers are very important. And yes, I think even a public defender can be a very good lawyer, I agree with what the other poster said about how the PDs deal with the prosecutors EVERY DAY. If you can’t afford a very excellent defense attorney you are probably better off with a public defender than with some inexperienced and unfamiliar (to the prosecutors) attorneys.
That said, I also agree with those who warn about your son being railroaded. Legally, the best thing for him is that he is still a juvenile. This was not a crime of violence so do your utmost to prevent him from being “upgraded” to an adult.
I also agree with the other poster who advised to let Dad take the lead.
I also wouldn’t have your son go talk to the victim or anyone else until you talk to the attorney. But later, yes, he probably should do that.
“I’m sorry” sincerely said still carries a lot of weight in this world.
Because we’ve all had to say it ourselves and we know what it means.
I would not disagree, though I would tell the attorney of the idea to deal directly with the victim.
It sounds like the kid is caught red handed and it sounds like a slam dunk if the case goes to trial, absent some foot fault in arrest or processing procedure. Most FReepers routinely scream bloody murder when a perp walks under those circumstances.
The suggestion of repayment to the victim is the Biblical solution and even if it does not work out, obedience has been shown. From that beginning, God's blessing and assistance will come forth.