Juvenile law deals with the actions and well-being of young people who are not yet adults. In Colorado, the juvenile court has jurisdiction over children who are at least 10 years old and under 18 at the time of the alleged conduct — a narrower window than many people assume, and one that matters a great deal, since it determines whether a young person is handled in juvenile court or exposed to the adult criminal justice system.
What juvenile courts handle
Colorado juvenile courts generally handle three categories of cases:
- Delinquency — conduct that would be a crime if committed by an adult.
- Dependency and neglect — cases involving abuse, neglect, or a parent’s failure to provide adequate care, generally initiated by the county department of human services.
- Status offenses — conduct that is only unlawful because of the person’s age, such as truancy or running away from home.
When a case can move to adult court
In certain serious cases, a juvenile’s case can be transferred to adult court, or in some circumstances directly filed there by the district attorney — this generally depends on the juvenile’s age, the severity of the charge, and other statutory factors. A juvenile as young as 12 or 13 can potentially face adult court for the most serious offenses (such as a class 1 or 2 felony, or a crime of violence). This is one of the most consequential decisions in a juvenile case, and it is important to have an attorney who understands both the juvenile and adult systems.
How juvenile court differs from adult court
Juvenile proceedings are generally private, rather than public, and the juvenile court’s mission is different from an adult criminal court’s. Rather than focusing solely on punishment, juvenile courts are also directed to consider rehabilitation, supervision, and the needs of the child.
How we can help
The Harper Law Firm, P.C has extensive experience representing juveniles — and parents — in delinquency, dependency and neglect, and status offense matters in Colorado courts. Having an attorney who understands the specific terminology, procedures, and stakes involved in juvenile cases can make a meaningful difference in the outcome.