Delinquency and Unruly

Initiation
Police or other persons present information about possible delinquent or unruly children to the Prosecutor’s Office. If the information is sufficient, and alternatives like mediation are not appropriate, an official complaint is filed.

Arraignment
At an arraignment, the Court reviews the Juvenile’s rights, reads and explains the complaint to the Juvenile and parent(s) and reviews the possible consequences of the charge. If the Juvenile requests court appointed counsel, the parent(s) completes an indigency affidavit form to see if the Juvenile qualifies for that service.

Pretrial
A pretrial is conference with the Prosecutor’s Office. A pretrial is scheduled to determine if the parties can reach agreement regarding the traffic citation. If the parties cannot reach agreement, the matter is then scheduled for a trial.

Adjudication
After the pretrial, the Court holds a hearing to determine whether the Juvenile is delinquent or unruly. The Court makes this decision only after considering all other evidence presented from all parties.

Disposition
Following adjudication, the Court decides what action will be taken with the Juvenile. For an example, the Juvenile may be placed in the Juvenile Detention Center, placed on in-home detention, placed on probation or ordered to participate in services.