How to File a Juvenile Delinquency Petition in Texas
The Texas juvenile justice system responds to about 90,000 delinquency cases a year, according to the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission. Most delinquency matters are handled through local jurisdictions and move to the state level only if necessary. A juvenile delinquent petition is often filed in Texas in response to child-incarceration matters or if a minor fails to maintain certain civil standards.
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Instructions
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Visit the juvenile court clerk's office in the courthouse in your Texas county if the juvenile was arrested or fails to attend school on a daily basis.
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Provide the court clerk with two forms of government-issued identification. Explain the delinquency situation to the clerk and ask for a Delinquent Conduct and Child in Need of Supervision petition. This form is a request to the court for a hearing and -- if necessary -- a determination of the need for juvenile supervision by the state of Texas.
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Fill out the petition. Include all pertinent details regarding the time, place and manner of the juvenile's alleged actions. List the minor's name and contact information. Write the names and contact information of the minors' parents, guardians or closest living adult relative. Answer all of the sections thoroughly, using clear, concise and accurate information.
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Make three copies of the petition, along with any supporting documents such as police reports or academic records. Return two sets of copies to the clerk. One copy is used for court files, while the second is submitted to the juvenile's defense team if one is involved. Keep a third set of copies for your records.
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Tips & Warnings
File the petition within 30 days of a juvenile criminal offense. File it within 15 days of a probation-violation matter.
Consult the Juvenile Justice Code in the Texas Constitution for additional details and grounds on filing a delinquency petition.
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