Juvenile Offenses – Frequently Asked Questions

My child refuses to come home on time. Can I lock my child out?

Enforcing house rules is tough for parents. A parent is allowed, even expected, to provide discipline in the home. However, a child may not be locked out of the house unless other arrangements have been made. This might be to allow the child to stay with a relative, or in another furnished part of the house.

What's a CASA/GAL?

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. CASA's are trained community volunteers appointed by the juvenile court to advocate for abused and neglected children in court.

A GAL is an attorney appointed to represent the best interests of a child before the juvenile court.

What is probation?

A judge may place a delinquent juvenile on probation under the supervision of a court counselor. During the period of probation, a juvenile must follow those requirements established by the judge. The Youth Services Officer or Probation Officer works with the juvenile and his/her family to provide services to assist the juvenile in successfully completing the court-ordered requirements. The Youth Services Officer or Probation Officer reports to the judge on the juvenile's progress.

Is a juvenile hearing exactly like an adult trial?

No. Although the hearing is conducted in a courtroom by a judge, juveniles have some rights, such as confidentiality of records that adults do not. Likewise, adults have some rights, such as jury trial and bail that juveniles do not. Both groups have some rights in common, such as the right to an attorney.

Our Main Office is Located at:

10390 Santa Monica Boulevard
Suite 300
Los Angeles, CA 90025