Nebraska's juvenile court system tries cases involving youths under the age of 18. State law requires that all children 17 or younger charged with a misdemeanor or low-level felony have their cases begin in juvenile court. Navigating this system can be overwhelming, but knowing some basic facts going in will help you make more informed decisions about the case at hand.

Separate Juvenile Courts

In Douglas, Lancaster, and Sarpy counties, there are separate juvenile courts to hear cases involving youths. They are courts of record and oversee a range of cases involving children, including domestic disputes involving the care and support of minors. 

In all other Nebraska counties, juvenile cases are heard in the county courts. Both the separate courts and the county courts use and follow the same procedures; the only difference is that county courts hear adult cases as well.

Juvenile Indigent Defense Delivery System

Nebraska also has a juvenile indigent defense delivery system, which is designed to provide legal counsel to indigent youths. It is administered through a county program that includes public defenders and assigned counsel. 

Individual judges decide whether a defendant requires the services of a public defender. Under Nebraska law, those tried in juvenile court have the right to counsel in all proceedings before the court. A youth must be informed of their right to counsel using developmentally appropriate language.

Juvenile Diversion Programs

Not all matters that are tried in the court system are deliberated in a courtroom. The state's juvenile diversion programs operate on the principle that many juvenile cases are more effectively resolved outside the courthouse. These programs are voluntary, and they give an eligible youth an opportunity to prove rehabilitation while reducing costs to taxpayers and the courts. When a youth completes a diversion program, they have a better chance of avoiding formal charges and having their record sealed.

The attorneys at Kleveland Law Offices will guide you through the juvenile court system. Since 1984, they have been serving the Lincoln, NE, area. They offer representation in criminal, family, and probate law cases. Call (402) 477-7776 to schedule a consultation or visit the law firm's website to explore their services in more detail.