Juveniles who are found guilty of a crime have a right to change the disposition within 30 days of sentencing. You or your child can ask your child’s lawyer to file any of the following to change the judge's decision:

1. A motion to withdraw a plea if you admitted guilt;

2. A motion to reconsider; or

3. A Notice of Appeal. 

If you file a motion and the judge denies it, you can still appeal the case within 30 days after the denial. 

An appeal means another court decides if the judge’s decision was good or bad. Filing an appeal can’t hurt your child. It can only help them. 

If you think your child would like to appeal, ask your child’s lawyer about the necessary steps right away. If your child’s lawyer does not do appeals, ask to be connected with a lawyer who can file your child’s appeal. 

If you cannot pay for an appellate lawyer, the court will provide a lawyer for free.

You or your child can also ask a court to change an order if circumstances change. This is called a post-disposition change. Judges can change the original order to serve the juvenile’s best interests. For example, a judge can change where the child lives, if a better option is available.