How Long Can Your Teenager Be Held In Juvenile Detention?
It's the phone call every parent dreads. A police officer informing you that your child has been arrested for burglary. Your first thoughts are probably centered in getting them home safe. But can they be held in jail and, if so, for how long? Is bail bonding an option?
Juvenile Arrest
An individual under the age of 18 is considered a juvenile by the law. A youth may end up in juvenile court for committing acts considered crimes in adult court, such as theft, burglary, or acts of violence. Or they may be charged with a status offense particular to juveniles, which include skipping school or not respecting curfews.
As a juvenile delinquent, your child will be held in a juvenile delinquent facility. The experience may scare some common sense into him or her and put them back on the right path. Although the longer they are held, the higher the risk that they will be influenced by the crime culture of their young inmates.
When Can a Juvenile Delinquent Be Held In Jail?
Juvenile delinquents can be held to protect the public and protect themselves. If the crime is serious and/or the offender poses a threat to the public or himself or herself, the right to bail bond can be withheld at the discretion of the judge.
Moreover, a judge may waive the right of a person under 18 to juvenile protection. If a juvenile has committed a serious crime or is a repeat offender who is not responding to rehabilitation efforts, he or she could be tried in an adult court and placed in an adult correction facility. In these cases, the judge may also waive the right to post a bail bond.
Posting Bail Bond for a Juvenile
In juvenile court, the judge has the discretion to release the offender to their parent or guardian. Some states have a juvenile bond system. If a bond is required, like an adult bond, you can post the bond directly. However, due to the high cost, most people choose to have a bail bondsman post the bail in exchange for a fee of around 10 percent of the bail amount. Contact a bail bonding service to learn more.
Unfortunately, some youth fall into the wrong crowd because of problems at home. If the judge determines the home environment is not a supportive or safe one for the youth, the youth may be sent to a juvenile home for rehabilitation and counseling.