Alabama Juvenile Justice Code

The Code provides clear definitions for crucial terms like "child" (typically someone under 18 or 19 for certain proceedings), "adult," "legal custody," and "child in need of supervision" (a child exhibiting behaviors requiring court intervention).

The Code outlines the types of cases handled by juvenile courts in Alabama.

These encompass:

• Delinquency: Acts that would be considered crimes if committed by an adult.
• Dependency: Situations where a child's physical or emotional well-being is at risk due to neglect, abuse, or abandonment.
• Children Requiring Involuntary Commitment: Cases involving minors who may pose a threat to themselves or others due to mental health concerns.

The Code also guarantees specific rights to juveniles involved in court proceedings, including:

• Right to legal representation (an attorney);
• Right to a fair hearing; and
• Right to confidentiality (protects the privacy of juvenile court proceedings).

Additionally, the Code outlines the legal steps involved in juvenile proceedings, encompassing:

• Filing a petition initiating the case;
• Detention hearings (determining if a minor requires secure placement);
• Adjudicatory hearings (determining if a child committed an offense or requires court intervention); and
• Dispositional hearings (deciding on appropriate interventions and placements).

Finally, the Code prioritizes rehabilitation and emphasizes exploring alternatives to secure detention whenever possible.

These alternatives may include:

• Probation with supervision;
• Community-based programs;
• Family counseling; and
• Residential treatment facilities.

For more information, the Alabama Juvenile Justice Code can be accessed online.