November 19, 2014 Juvenile Cases = Not Adult Crimes If you are under 18 and break the law, you can be charged with a juvenile offense. The Juvenile System, including Juvenile Corrections and Juvenile Court, will handle your case. How a Juvenile Case Begins with service of a summons; or an arrest What is a Summons? A Summons is a piece of paper that tells you to go to Court. It has: the charge you are being accused of the time and date for Court the Court location It’s important to note that a Summons is not an arrest. You will not be taken into custody, but you must sign the Summons. You are not admitting to anything when you sign the summons. You must go to Court when the Summons tells you to or else a bench warrant will issue for your arrest. An Arrest An arrest means you are being: put “in custody” by the police, or brought to a detention facility. You can be under arrest even if the police do not tell you that you are under arrest. If the police say you are not free to leave, then it is considered an arrest. Remember; be polite when speaking with an officer. If you are arrested, a police officer or Juvenile Community Corrections Officer must contact one of your parents or your legal guardian and tell them where you are and who the JCCO is. Police Questioning If the police ask, you must tell the officer your real name, date of birth and address. You do not have to tell the officer anything else. If you are under arrest, and the police want to question you, they must first notify your parent or legal guardian. Asking for a Lawyer You have a right to a lawyer, and it is important to ask for one. If you do not ask for one, your parents can ask for you. Asking for a lawyer does not mean that you think you are guilty. A lawyer can tell you what you should or should not answer. Serving the Puget Sound Area Since 1996 Every case has its own unique problems, consequences, and opportunities. No two cases are alike. We encourage you to call and speak personally to a lawyer about your child’s unique circumstances. Call us at 206-621-0500 or contact us online for a free consultation.