Know your Rights

It is important to consult with an attorney for a full explanation of your rights as a juvenile, parent, or party to any court proceeding. The following is a brief description of some of your rights in specific circumstances.

You have the right to an attorney at most hearings. [expand].

You have the right to demand that a judge hears your case instead of a court referee, in most cases. [expand].

You have the right to demand a trial by jury in certain types of cases. [expand].

You have the right to have the prosecution prove its case by the applicable burden of proof, to question the witnesses the prosecutor calls, and to question your own witnesses. You also have the right to remain silent and to not have your silent used against you. [expand].