How a Youth case starts ...
A youth case may start with any of the following:
1. ARREST
- An arrest means you are taken into custody by the police and brought to the Jan Evans Juvenile Detention Center (detention facility for kids).
- If you are arrested, the police or Juvenile Services employee will call one of your parents (or your guardian) and tell them where you are.
- If you are arrested, click here for more information.
2. CITATION
- The police issue you a citation (a paper that states your potential charges and you have to sign it) and contact your parents.
- If the police issue a citation, they do not take you to the detention facility. Most often they will take you home or call your parents to come get you.
- A citation is also considered a referral to the Juvenile Services Department.
- If you received a citation, click here for more information.
3. REFERRAL
- If you are delinquent or in need of supervision, a referral may be made to the Juvenile Services Department.
- If you received a referral, click here for more information.
Police Questioning
-
Never run from the police.
-
You must tell a police officer your name and address. You do not have to tell them anything else.
-
Do not argue with the police. Anything you say to them will be used against you.
-
Keep your hands where the police can see them.
-
Do not talk to the police about the incident.
-
Ask for a lawyer immediately, and do not waive any of your legal rights.