JuvenileThe Juvenile Clerk is the custodian for records that include:
- Delinquencies
- Children in Need of Protection and Services
- Termination of Parental Rights
- Injunctions where the respondent is a juvenile
All filings for juvenile cases are docketed and received by the Juvenile Clerk. Juvenile records are kept confidential and are therefore closed files. The Juvenile Clerk schedules and notices all hearings for juvenile court which is generally held the first and third Wednesday of each month.
Teen Court is for first time offenders between the ages of 12 and 17 who made a mistake or poor decision and want to make it right. Trained teens from other schools will listen to them, their parent, and then decide what needs to be done that will be most beneficial for all involved.
The offender might receive community service, a letter of apology, write a report, restitution, mediation, or some other form of sanction. If they complete their Teen Court contract then their record is cleared and any sentence that was stayed in juvenile court is dismissed. No forfeiture or driver's license suspension.
For the Teen Court Judges it is an opportunity to make a difference in someone's life and be a mentor or role model for others. Training for the Judges is provided once a year and are from the area school districts.
Teen Court is requested at the intake hearing in Juvenile Court and the offender must admit to their minor offense. Parents are expected to attend Teen Court with their child.