My 14 years old son was arrested after he and his friend was caught burglary and grand theft at a nearby school. My husband and I signed and agreed for him to follow a case worker for 3 to 6 months as his probation. During this period, he will also do community service as required. I was told if he successfully complete the program then his records will be erased completely.
He understands now how stupid he was to have done such horrible thing. (or shall I call it a crime?) I am very disturbed and sad for what he has done to himself. I am very worried and concerned if this terrible record will follow him for the rest of his life.
Can anyone give me some direction and advice to ease my worries.
Thanks.

Hey, I have a juvenile record and it is worse than that. The records are sealed when you turn 18. My past has never came up to haunt me and I work for a government contractor. People empathize with a person if they do find out about their past. We all do stupid shameful things as a teenager. Don't worry, he will be fine!

He has to remember what he did was a crime punishable with possible prison time. Burglary and grand theft are felonies. The fact he's 14 was in his favor and he lucked out this time. If he is truly repentant of his crime he will not do this again in a big hurry. Then when he turns 18 he won't magically have it disappear should he do any crime at that time. You need to make sure he can distinguish between being 14 and being over 18 prior to his turning 18.