Most would agree that schoolyard fights are never the best way for students to solve their issues with one another; but what many people may not know is that the consequences of these fights can be much larger and more damaging than a black eye. School fights and other incidents involving physical contact with other students (i.e. punching or slapping) may very well result in charges filed in juvenile court. Typically, a school fight will result in Saturday school, school suspension, or in more extreme cases, time in an ALC (alternative learning center). These scenarios are based on the school’s discretion and understanding of the altercation. In the event that the above three levels of punishment don’t “fit the crime,” stronger measures may be taken. In this case, the school administration or the Student Resource Officer (who is usually an employee of the local sheriff’s department) may also file a delinquency petition in juvenile court, alleging that the student committed an assault. At this point, the student will be required to go before the juvenile court to face the allegation. The student has a right to a hearing to determine if he or she committed the criminal acts alleged in the petition. And in this case, the student does have a right to be represented by an attorney. School fights can get out of hand quickly, and for this reason, it’s best to seek help from school administration rather than giving your student permission to engage in a physical altercation.
