It went pretty well for him- there were (are) some frustrations for me.
First, his sentence: 30 more days in detention, then out back on probation with the ankle bracelet/monitor; commitment to state dept of juvenile corrections on suspension until he's 21- period- she will do it automatically if he ever breaks a law again.
My frustrations- the PO, although asking for him not to be committed now so that he could continue treatment (this was primarily the reason that he is not getting committed now), said that he had to learn that he had to be accountable for his actions. (OK) Then she said that his mother (me) had to be held accountable for where he is and what he is doing at all times. HUH? Well, she said this in reference to him tearing up his school issued computer while at a friend's house. Now how am I supposed to be at fault for that? I don't let him just go out without me knowing where he is and checking back in periodically. That just rubbed me the wrong way. Fortunately, the judge appeared to let it go in one ear and out the other.
Next frustration- the judge. She said that since he didn't qualify for the program that she originally ordered, according to sentencing guidelines, she could only commit him to state dept. or give him 30 days max in detention. Well, last year she gave him 5 mos in detention, suspended. How could she do that if it wasn't in accordance with the law? The GAL said the judge could give him 30 days max on each charge. If they are committed to the state, the state decides the sentence- it is out of the judges hands at that point. I'm just frustrated because it seems like there is no real LAW that these people are following for juveniles. Every time we go to court it sounds like a different story.
Anyway, it is good that he didn't get more. I just have to figure out how I'm going to be able to continue paying the bills without being able to work full time because of all the therapist appts and not leaving difficult child at home alone so I can prove adequate supervision. Then, there is the problem of not having medication insurance paid for by employer because I'm not working full time. (I'm looking into options for that now) I can't tell them that I can't make this work because the prosecuting attny even seemed on board with what difficult child needed but said it might be more practical to turn him over to the state now since so much therapy/treatment and other stuff was needed for him. (They really aren't supposed to assign a punishment based on the fact that they can't offer needed mental health treatment- but I think it happens all the time.) The GAL would support commitment, too, or placement outside of home if she thought I couldn't make this work- so I HAVE to find a way. And, boy, it is going to be rough to ki** up to this PO for an indefinite period of time.
I guess the best news- if difficult child behaves for a certain period of time (Tows the line), and I get all his restitution paid off and make the PO feel like we think she is God, difficult child will never have to go to court again. He will be DONE!!!
So- thank you for the vibes and well-wishes, prayers, and support!!