Juvenile law

Juvenile law

Juvenile delinquency cases are where the system punishes young people under the age of 18 for violating the law. Delinquency cases are prosecuted by the District Attorney and are usually handled by a separate juvenile division in the district court. Most cases are handled by a magistrate whose decisions can be reviewed by the judge.

When a juvenile is adjudicated (pleads or is found guilty), the court has a wide range of sentencing options. The court typically will look for the “least restrictive” alternative when imposing sentence. This usually means that a sentence of probation will be imposed which can be combined with useful public service, counseling and the payment of court costs and restitution. For first time offenders, the District Attorney may refer the case to Diversion. Diversion offers the opportunity for the juvenile to avoid adjudication (conviction.)

The court also has the option of imposing a detention sentence of up to 45 days, can place the juvenile in a group home or other treatment program or impose a sentence to the Department of Human Services for 2 years. Special sentencing provisions apply to juveniles who are 18 years of age at the time of sentencing or have been classified as aggravated, violent or repeat juvenile offenders. In certain more serious cases, the District Attorney can choose to charge a juvenile in the adult criminal court system.

If your son or daughter has been charged in a juvenile delinquency case, you need