Juvenile

Juvenile Court handles cases in which anyone under the age of 18 (minor) is:

Cited or arrested by a law enforcement agency for allegedly violating the law, or is reported to the court as being habitually truant from school. These cases are referred to as "Delinquency."

Removed from the custody of their parents or legal guardian due to allegations of abuse or neglect. These cases are referred to as "Dependency."

The Juvenile Presiding Judge (JPJ) has countywide responsibility for promoting the safety, well-being, and success of children, youth, and families involved in or at risk of involvement with the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. The Juvenile Court is California's original statutorily mandated collaborative court, and the JPJ is authorized to engage in cross-system partnerships that bring together government agencies, schools, behavioral health providers, child welfare, probation, and community organizations to address the needs of vulnerable children and youth. Consistent with California Rules of Court, Standard 5.40, the JPJ provides leadership to strengthen coordination, accountability, and outcomes across systems serving young people.

Juvenile

  • Delinquency

    Delinquency proceedings involve most persons under the age of 18 who have been alleged to have committed a violation of a law or statute.

    Read about Delinquency

  • Dependency

    Juvenile dependency court hears cases involving children who have allegedly been abused, neglected, or inadequately cared for.

    Read about Dependency

  • Southern California Intercounty Transfer Protocol

    The Intercounty Transfer Protocol was developed to ensure that a transfer of juvenile jurisdiction is in the best interests of the minor, to provide for the expeditious and efficient transfer of a case, and permit the timely conduct of mandated hearings.

    Read about Southern California Intercounty Transfer Protocol

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