FAQ - Juvenile Cases
My child got a ticket for curfew violation, possession of tobacco, underage drinking, or truancy. Does my child need to go to court?
Yes, the juvenile needs to appear in court with a parent or guardian.
Resources:
Rule 12 of Arizona Rules of Procedure for the Juvenile Court
Do I have to appear in court with my child?
A parent or guardian must appear with the juvenile for all criminal or petty offenses.
My child received a criminal traffic ticket. Do they need to appear in court?
If the traffic ticket violation is a class 1 misdemeanor or higher, the juvenile will have to appear in court with a parent or guardian. See the list of criminal traffic violations that require a court appearance.
Visit I Do Not Know What Type of Traffic Ticket I Received page if you are not sure how to read the traffic ticket.
For non-criminal tickets see what options are available with Civil Traffic Tickets.
Can I be held liable if my juvenile does not do what the judge says?
Yes.
Can I sue a minor?
No; however, the parent or guardian of the minor may be sued.
What is a judgment?
A judgment is a legal claim filed against a minor or parent/guardian for money that is owed to the victim. The judgment is ruled upon in a Court hearing.
What happens when the minor does not pay the court ordered restitution?
If you fail to pay any Court ordered restitution, a judgment will be filed when the minor reaches the age of 17 years and 9 months. This judgment requires that the minor pay the remaining balance after they turn 18. There is a possibility that future tax refunds may be intercepted until the restitution is paid.
Why am I being assessed fees when I am the parent/guardian?
All fees are mandated by state statute. Since you are ultimately responsible for the minor involved in the case, you are financially responsible for their actions. You can apply for a fee waiver or deferral if you are unable to afford the cost.
May my child do community service hours in lieu of any parental fees owed?
No, fees that are owed by the parent cannot be taken on by the minor. They are solely the responsibility of the parent.
I am under 18 years old and I got a traffic ticket. What do I do?
Minors who receive civil traffic citations must appear in court at the scheduled time and date with a parent or legal guardian. The hearing is not a trial, but an opportunity for the Judge to explain the options available to the juvenile and their parents.
Resources