LAC 22:XV.1341. Manifestation of a Disability

A. Where the child client’s actions that are the subject of the delinquency charge suggest a manifestation of a disability, the attorney should argue that the disability prevented the client from having the mental capacity or specific intent to commit the crime. Where appropriate, for school-based offenses, the attorney should argue that that the school did not follow the child client’s individual education program, which could have prevented the client’s behavior. The attorney should seek a judgment of dismissal or a finding that the juvenile is not delinquent. This information may also be used for mitigation at the time of disposition following a plea or a finding of delinquency.