5th District Juvenile Court: Your Rights Under the Law

Liberty means responsibility. That is why most men dread it.
- George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950)

You have the following rights:

1. The Right to appear in person and to defend yourself with or without counsel.
2. The Right to an Attorney: You have the right to an attorney at any stage of the court process. If you cannot afford one, then the Court can appoint one for you. To apply for a public defender, you must fill out a financial affidavit and submit it to the Court.
3. The Right to receive a copy of the petition.
4. The Right Against Self-Incrimination: You have the right to remain silent and anything you say can be used against you in the court proceedings.
5. The Right to a speedy trial and for sufficient time and notice to prepare a defense.
6. The Right to confront and cross examine witnesses.
7. The Right to testify and to compel witnesses to attend the hearing on your behalf
8. The Right to Appeal.