So, now we just (??) have to worry about November? So, why barber and not beauty school? Money's better and I bet he could charm the socks off the ladies.
I'm glad the PO was realistic about the lack of jobs and I love that Dude had a book he could show with the names, etc. Has he called any of them back to see if they're willing to consider him?
by the way -- I used to volunteer at a prison. One piece of advice that was given inmates before they left was to not mark anything re felony convictions. Simply save it for the interview, then admit you made a mistake and that you were trying to make sure nothing like that happened again. Of course, some would end the interview right then and there but a few employers were willing to give felons a chance.
I forget the name of the site that Janet (antsmom) went to, prisontalk (?) or something like that, but I believe they may have a list or links to employers who will hire felons. Worth checking out anyway.
It really does sound like Dude's PD is ready to roll over and just let the DA and judge do whatever they want. I hate, hate, hate that a PD would just give up like that. I do believe that if people (read judge) could see what a raw deal Dude has been given in treatment and fosters, that maybe sentencing would consist of things like trade school, true assistance for personal growth, etc. Even though he will be 18 by November, is there any chance he can get a GAL? I know of one boy that I used to work with who had a history a lot like Dude's. His PD wasn't fighting for him and the DA wanted to really make an example out of him. I brought to the court's attention what all had been promised to the boy and his parents that he would receive in the way of help and what in fact he had received (at least he went to school even though he couldn't read at the 5th grade level). It really did make a difference and rather than sentencing him to prison, he was put on probation with the conditions being no trouble of any sort, trade school (at the county's expense), therapy, etc. If you can find anyone in the judicial system who has an official capacity to work with you and Dude, he might have a chance. I pray for you.