Juvenile

The Juvenile department handles all cases heard on behalf of or against a minor who falls under the statutory age limit of 18 years. Juvenile cases are categorized as follows:

• Juvenile Delinquency Cases - violations of criminal law
• Juvenile Dependency Cases - cases of child abuse, neglect or abandonment
• Children In Need of Services / Families In Need of Services - for the protection and care of children, the promotion of stability in families, and provision of needed services
• Truancy Cases - a minor child that has 5 unexcused absences in a calendar month or 10 unexcused absences in 90 days
• Sexting Cases - a minor commits offense by possessing, distributing, or transmitting a photo or video depicting nudity

Delinquency Cases:

Within 24 hours of being detained, the court determines if the juvenile can be detained or released. After the initial detention hearing, an arraignment is held where the juvenile pleas to the charges. Not guilty pleas may be changed during a docket call held at a a later date. If a defendant pleads guilty or no contest, then the case moves forward to the disposition or sentencing. If a defendant continues with a plea of not guilty, the case goes to a non-jury trial. The judge determines whether a child is guilty or innocent based upon the evidence presented. A final judgment, or lien, is placed against the parents (or guardian) of all juveniles that owe court fees.

Court fees and restitution payments are collected by the Payment Center and Juvenile departments. If restitution is levied, a $3.50 fee is charged. Then, the restitution is forwarded to the victims. The Clerk's office accepts cash, money orders, cashier’s checks, and Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The Clerk's office does not accept personal checks.

Delinquency Forms

• Application for Criminal Indigent Status

Dependency Cases:

A dependency case consists of allegations of abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a minor child. Dependency cases are started as a result of someone calling the abuse hotline. An investigation is conducted and, if there is probable cause, the case is brought before the judge. A shelter hearing is held followed by an arraignment. Depending on the plea, either a docket call or disposition takes place. If the parents deny the allegations, then a trial is held in a non-jury court of law.

The judge is the deciding factor of guilt or innocence. If the court declares the child dependent, the parent(s) enter into a case plan with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to comply with regulations or sanctions imposed by the court. DCF ensures that children are safe and free from risk. Non-compliance with the case plan may result in the children being placed in the permanent custody of the State of Florida.

Dependency Forms

• Parent Information Questionnaire
• Application for Indigent Status Dependency & Termination of Parental Rights Cases
• Notice of Permanent Address
• Pro Se Verified Petition to Reopen Visition / Custody Case

Juvenile Department Forms

• Juvenile Records Request Form
• Change of Address Form

• Application for Criminal Indigent Status
• Change of Address Form
• Parent Information Questionnaire
• Application for Indigent Status Dependency & Termination of Parental Rights Cases
• Notice of Permanent Address Form
• Pro Se Verified Petition to Reopen Visitation / Custody Case
• Juvenile Records Request Form