In 2017, there were approximately 895 new cases of alleged juvenile delinquency in Montgomery County. Among the cases, there were 227 felony offenses, 572 misdemeanors, and 96 minor summary offenses. Juvenile offenders are typically placed on a period of probation that is supervised by a probation officer. The assigned officer may visit youths at their home, school, or job.
Juvenile Detention in Montgomery County
Alleged juvenile offenders may be admitted to the Montgomery County Youth Center, a coed housing facility that may hold up to 48 juveniles. The Juvenile Probation Department approves admission and a detention hearing must be held within a 72-hour period. The facility has 12-beds allocated for those accused of minor offenses and 36-beds are for secure housing. In 2017, the median number of days that a juvenile stayed in a detention facility was 10 days.
Number of Detention Center Admissions in Pennsylvania
|
2013 |
2014 |
2015 |
2016 |
2017 |
|
11,605 |
10,120 |
8,993 |
8,600 |
8,608 |
Pennsylvania Juvenile Courts
The Pennsylvania Rules of Juvenile Court Procedure were implemented according to Article V of the Constitution of Pennsylvania by the state's Supreme Court. Juveniles are those between the ages of 10 and 17. If a juvenile offender is found to be delinquent before reaching the age of 18, they may be subject to juvenile supervision and sanctions up until the age of 21. Keep in mind that it is possible that juveniles who have committed serious offenses may be tried as an adult.
Arrest and Intake Process
Juveniles may be placed under arrest for alleged offenses. Next, the authorities assess the severity of the charges and whether the child is a safety risk. A parent or guardian must be notified following an arrest. Usually the youth will be released to their parents; however, detention is possible if a lack of parental supervision is suspected. Juveniles with an active arrest warrant or alleged to have committed very serious offenses may be detained until their court appearance.
Law enforcement may have the child photographed and fingerprinted. When a youth is detained they have a right to a Detention Hearing within a period of 72 hours. During this period someone from the Montgomery County Juvenile Probation Department will closely evaluate the circumstances based on factors such as:
- How serious the charge is
- Any record of delinquent acts
- Input from law enforcement
- The stability of the family situation
- Potential mental health concerns and more.
Diversionary Solutions
Often the court will impose a period of “adjustment” or supervision, such as for a period of six months. A Consent Decree may be issued that requires a formalized period of supervision from a probation officer. Other requirements or conditions may include making financial restitution, performance of community service, counseling, and more. Failure to adhere to the conditions can result in being brought before the court.
Adjudication and Disposition Hearings
In an Adjudication Hearing in Montgomery County, the court will assess the evidence to determine guilt and a plea agreement is also possible. A Disposition Hearing is where a determination is made regarding the course of treatment. It is possible that the court may order the juvenile to be placed into residential custody.
Montgomery County Attorney for Juvenile Offenses
Our Criminal Law Team thoroughly understands the juvenile court system. It is critical that the rights of the child are protected and that potential long-term ramifications of a criminal record are minimized. Contact the office at 888-535-3686 for a consultation.
