Juvenile Court is a division of the Circuit Court that has jurisdiction over juvenile delinquency matters, in which individuals under the age of eighteen violate criminal law. The 15th Judicial Circuit has implemented many award-winning programs to reduce juvenile recidivism, seek restitution for victims, provide diversion for mediation or treatment, and education the public about delinquency issues.
The Juvenile Court also has jurisdiction over matters concerning juveniles who have been abandoned, abused or neglected, or surrendered for adoption. Judges must make decisions regarding the custodial placement of children and determine issues related to the "best interests" of the child. The Attorney General's Office represents the Department of Children & Families. Parents are also entitled to legal representation and may secure an attorney or the court may appoint legal counsel on their behalf. In addition, the Guardian ad Litem Program "speaks up for children" involved in dependency proceedings.
