When a child is arrested for allegedly committing a crime in Connecticut, they are usually summoned to Juvenile Court. At the initial plea hearing (arraignment), the judge will read an advisement of rights.
Here are the rights of child who has been accused of juvenile delinquency:
1. The right to remain silent. The child is not obligated to say anything about the case to anyone. If they do, those statements may be used against the child.
2. The right to counsel. The child is entitled to legal representation. If the family is considered indigent, the court will appoint counsel (public defender) for the child.
3. The right not to be questioned. The child cannot be questioned unless they agree and they can have their attorney present during any interrogation if they choose. At any point during questioning, the child may stop answering questions.
4. The right to a trial. Many cases in Juvenile Court result in a plea bargain with the Prosecutor. But sometimes the “deal” from the State is unacceptable. A child always has the choice to take the case to trial and force the State to prove the allegations against them “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Depending on the alleged offense and the child’s criminal record, there may be certain programs available to a child if an agreement cannot be reached with the Prosecutor. If one of these programs is successfully completed, the case is dismissed. The possibility of participating in one of these diversionary programs should be explored with your Juvenile Court lawyer.