Purpose
The purposes of the delinquency court are: to protect, to give guidance, to punish children who commit delinquent acts, and to protect the community.
A Ward Of The Delinquency Court
If your child becomes a ward of the court as a juvenile delinquent, the court will make orders for you and your child so that your child and the community will be protected.
As a ward of the delinquency court:
- Your child may be allowed to live in your home under court supervision; or
- Your child may be placed outside of your home in an unlocked or locked facility, depending upon your child’s age, the seriousness of the offense, and your child’s history of delinquency.
Petition
The petition and other papers you may have received say that your child is accused of having done certain delinquent acts. The petition does not prove anything, but it is important for you to know what your child is accused of having done. You have the right to receive a copy of the petition. Please read the petition carefully.