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1. My child is not listening to me and I want my child to go in front of a judge, what do I do?

A juvenile must first be alleged to have committed a crime and arrested:

• An intake officer must find probable cause that it is reasonable to believe the juvenile committed the alleged crime and decide if court is the best course of action.  
• When a juvenile is referred to court, that juvenile has all the constitutional rights afforded adults.
• In Virginia, the parents may be required to pay for the juvenile's attorney either by hiring one or requesting a court appointed attorney.
• The parents/ guardians cannot refuse legal representation for their child.
• If a child requests an attorney, an attorney will be appointed.

2. There is a child in my neighborhood who I know vandalized my property, what do I do?

Call the police at 804-748-1251. It is always better to have the professionals investigate alleged crimes. The police know what to do and how to navigate the criminal justice process.

3. I think this young person who is hanging out with my child is on probation, how can I find out?

You cannot. The Code of Virginia does not allow for the dissemination of information regarding a juvenile's criminal record, court involvement or probation status except in certain specific situations.

4. My child just needs a couple of days in the detention home to teach him or her a lesson, what do I do?

Juveniles can only be placed in detention for very specific reasons as stated in the Code of Virginia. Anyone, adult or child, who is at risk of being incarcerated, has certain rights and is allowed legal representation to ensure the initial and continued incarceration is legal and an appropriate result of criminal behavior.

5. My child went to court and the judge said there was "evidence sufficient" to find my child guilty, what does that mean?

If your child was represented in court by a lawyer, contact that lawyer to get answers to your questions. In general, "evidence sufficient" means there was not a finding of guilt made by the judge but there is enough evidence to find your child guilty. This is often done in an effort to have your child demonstrate good behavior and earn a dismissal of the charge.

6. How do I know my child is on probation?

The judge will tell you and your child in court. Right after the hearing, you and your child would have signed temporary probation rules. In a few days the assigned probation officer would have called you to set up an appointment to establish the permanent rules and the supervision plan.

Please note: Not everyone who goes to court is on supervised probation.

7. My child is on probation and did not come home at curfew, do I call the police?

No. As long as your child is home, call the assigned probation officer and leave him or her a message. The probation officer will call you back to learn the details of the violation. If your child does not come home at all or his or her whereabouts are unknown, call the assigned probation officer and provide the details.