About the Juvenile Justice System in Floyd County
Floyd County Prosecutor Chris Lane is committed to fairly resolving juvenile issues throughout our community. If your child is detained, there will be a detention hearing that typically occurs within two business days following detainment. A probation officer will notify you of the time, date, and location of the hearing while also serving as a liaison between the court and school system.
Who is a Juvenile?
For juvenile delinquency purposes, a juvenile is a person who has not reached the age of 18 and has not been waived to adult court (or committed an offense which the juvenile court system does not have jurisdiction).
What are the Typical or Common Consequences?
The typical consequences for juvenile offenders is an informal judgement. An informal judgement is reserved for low risk and first time offenders and consists of supervision through probation for a certain period of time. Other consequences may include regular probation, short term detention, or commitment to a treatment facility. Commitment to the Indiana Department of Corrections or waiver to adult court is also possible.
Will My Child Have Legal Representation?
Yes, Indiana law provides that a child facing a delinquency petition is entitled to an attorney at no cost, regardless of financial standing of the juvenile or family.
What is the Difference Between a Child in Need of Services (C.H.I.N.S.) Case and a Delinquency Proceeding?
A C.H.I.N.S. proceeding can be instituted by the Department of Child Services for many reasons. A delinquency proceeding is instituted by the Prosecuting Attorney based on information that a juvenile has committed either an act that would be a crime if they were an adult, or a status offense (truancy, runaway, or incorrigibility). These are separate proceedings.
