The Family Court is usually receives a referral (notified) when a juvenile is accused of breaking the law from a Law Enforcement agency. The referral and the juvenile are physically taken to the Family Justice Center; or the referral is sent by mail or hand delivered.

The referral is reviewed by the Juvenile Officer who determines what happens next.

The possibilities include:

• You might be given a warning
• You and your family might be interviewed by a Deputy Juvenile Officer.
• You might not have to see the judge. Instead you might have to meet with a court worker who would help you to stay out of trouble in the future. (Prevention & Diversion)
• You might be returned home in the custody of your parent(s), with court ordered supervision by a juvenile probation officer (Probation)
• You might be placed in a foster home, a group home or other residential facility. (Placement).
• You might be ordered to perform community service or pay restitution to the victim. If you cause damage to property or injure a person, your parents may also have to pay up to $4,000 for damages and injuries. (Restitution Services)

What helps the court to decide what to do?

• The number of times you have been in trouble
• The seriousness of your offense
• Your school record - including behavior and grades
• What help your family will give
• The kind of friends you have
• How well you cooperate with your assigned juvenile probation officer
• Your attitude