A "juvenile delinquent" is a person over 7 and less than 16 years of age who has committed an act that would constitute a crime if committed by an adult but who is not criminally responsible for such conduct by reason of age. Nevertheless, given the nature of such actions, a juvenile delinquent child may nevertheless be held responsible for such conduct through a juvenile delinquency proceeding in Family Court, during which the facts will be heard and determined by the Court and an appropriate resolution will be determined.
The disposition of a juvenile delinquency proceeding may range from a conditional discharge, to probation, to placement in a youth detention facility. The Court may also order restitution or repayment of any damages incurred as a result of the child's actions.
The procedures involved in a juvenile delinquency proceeding can be quite complex and the implications of a juvenile delinquency proceeding can be extensive and far-reaching. If you or a family member become involved in a juvenile delinquency proceeding, please contact Lawrence J. Schwind.