What happens when a juvenile is arrested or cited for a criminal offense?
When arrested for a criminal act, a juvenile is referred to the Pierce County Juvenile Court. An arrest is made when a law enforcement officer has reason to believe that a crime has been committed and a specific individual was involved in that crime (probable cause). Following the arrest, the juvenile may be detained at Remann Hall. It is important to note that at the time of the juvenile's arrest and entry into detention, the juvenile has not yet been charged with a crime. The agency responsible for filing criminal charges is the Prosecuting Attorney's Office.

A law enforcement officer may submit a report to the prosecutor for a charging decision without taking a juvenile into custody. If the prosecutor decides to file charges, a Notice and Summons, including a copy of the formal charges, will be mailed to the parents or guardian of the juvenile. A Notice and Summons directs the parents to appear with the juvenile on a given day for an arraignment. If the juvenile fails to appear on the specified date, an arrest warrant will be issued. If the charge is minor in nature, the juvenile's case may be referred to the Diversion unit. Notification of receiving the referral is sent out by the Diversion unit shortly after reviewing charges for acceptance.

Show All Answers

1. Where are arrested youth detained?
2. When can I visit my child in detention?
3. What are the rules for visiting my child in detention?
4. Can I visit a youth in detention if I am not the youth’s parent?
5. What happens when a juvenile is arrested or cited for a criminal offense?
6. How do I quash my warrant?
7. Do I have any financial responsibilities if my child is arrested or detained?
8. If my child was detained, are there court hearings?
9. How do I find out if my child has a court hearing?
10. Can my child be detained for a long time?
11. Can my personal property be released to my parent?
12. Are there any requirements if my child is released from Detention?