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What type of cases does Juvenile Court hear?

-Delinquent, unruly, truancy, runaway, and traffic offenses

-Petitions to establish paternity, visitation, custody, and child support between unmarried parents

-Dependency and Neglect: Circumstances under which a child may be in eminent risk of substantial harm and needs the protection of the Court.

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Juvenile Court

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1. What type of cases does Juvenile Court hear?

-Delinquent, unruly, truancy, runaway, and traffic offenses

-Petitions to establish paternity, visitation, custody, and child support between unmarried parents

-Dependency and Neglect: Circumstances under which a child may be in eminent risk of substantial harm and needs the protection of the Court.

2. How do I file a petition?: Judicial Commissioners are available 24 hours a day to assist with delinquent, unruly, and runaway offenses. For all other petitions, please contact Juvenile Services at 790-5812.

3. When is my court date?: Contact Juvenile Services at 790-5812

4. How do I request a court appointed attorney?: You have the right to a court appointed attorney if:
1. You are a juvenile charged with a delinquent offense.
2. You are the respondent in a petition for dependent and neglect.
If you cannot afford to hire an attorney, you may qualify for a court appointed attorney.
Contact Juvenile Services for the appropriate forms to request an attorney.

5. What and/or who do I bring to court?: If you are a juvenile charged with an unruly or delinquent petition, you must appear with a parent or guardian and anything related to the case. If you are the parent/respondent in a petition you may bring anything related to the case. If needed, you have the right to have witnesses subpoenaed to testify on behalf of your case.

6. What do I wear to court?: Business casual attire is recommended. No shorts, tank tops, camisoles, or clothing with inappropriate logos.

7. Who do I contact if I have a question about a court order or how to complete any requirements?: Contact the Youth Services Officer (YSO) assigned to the case. If you do not know who the YSO is, contact Juvenile Services at 790-5812.A copy of an order can be obtained from the Juvenile Court Clerk's office. They can be reached at 790-5814.

8. Is a juvenile placed under arrest if they are handcuffed and transported to juvenile detention by law enforcement?: No, juveniles are considered to be in custody, not under arrest, if they are handcuffed and transported to detention. (TCA 37-1-113)

9. Are juveniles convicted of criminal offenses?: No, a juvenile is found to be a delinquent or unruly child in need of treatment or rehabilitation (TCA 37-1-102)