Juvenile Courts

questions & answers

Question: My 16 year old son has a court date for his runaway charge. I have been told that he might be given volunteer hours and or a fine. What happens when he doesn't fulfill his penalty?

Answer: Under Arizona law, the juvenile court may punish a person for contempt of court for willfully violating, neglecting or refusing to obey or perform any lawful order (this is the “penalty”) of the juvenile court or for obstructing or interfering with the proceedings of the juvenile court or the enforcement of its orders subject to the laws relating to the procedures therefor and the limitations thereon according to A.R.S. § 8 -247. Further, the court may take action against you and/or you son if he fails to comply; to find specific information regarding the possible treatment under Arizona law consult A.R.S. § 8-234. There may be other resources available which will assist you, contact the LegalLEARN, Legal Information & Resources at (866) 637-5341. You will also find useful information on many legal topics at AZLawHelp’s Find a Lawyer resources.