Posted on January 26, 2022 in Juvenile Crimes

Maricopa County Juvenile Court Center – Durango

Do you have an upcoming hearing at the Maricopa County Juvenile Court Center – Durango? In this blog, Phoenix criminal defense attorney Craig Orent discusses what you should know before you go.

In Maricopa County, there are two main juvenile court centers. There is the Durango Juvenile Court Center, and there is the Juvenile Court Center – Southeast. The Juvenile Center that we are discussing here is the Durango facility, located at 3131 W. Durango in Phoenix, open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.

You likely received formal court papers telling you which facility to go to for your hearing. If you aren’t sure which facility to go to, the court clerk is usually willing to check for you if you call the court. However, never discuss details of a case with the clerk, as whatever you say to them could be used against you or your loved one. 

What Kinds of Cases Go to Maricopa County Juvenile Court Center – Durango?

Maricopa County Juvenile Court Center – Durango handles many different types of cases relating to juveniles. A juvenile is anyone who is not an adult under Arizona law, i.e., anyone under the age of 18. 

The following types of cases involving youths may be heard in the Durango facility:

• Delinquency and Incorrigibility
• Adoption matters
• Termination of Parental Rights
• Dependency matters
• Guardianship
• Emancipation
• Restraining orders

Delinquency is the umbrella term used for criminal cases relating to juveniles/youth offenders. Typically, first-time youth offenders go to juvenile court. 

However, certain juveniles can be charged as adults in limited situations, including: 

• A youth of at least 14 who has been convicted of two prior felonies if the prosecutor believes it is necessary to charge them as an adult to protect the public
• A youth between 15 and 18 who is accused of murder in the first degree or second degree, forcible sexual assault, armed robbery, aggravated driving, or any violent offense is required to be charged as an adult.

Just because a matter is in juvenile court does not diminish its seriousness. A delinquency matter needs to be taken extremely seriously. 

What Should I Know Before Going to Juvenile Court?

If you are going to Maricopa County Juvenile Court Center, we have some important tips for you to set yourself up for success. These tips are:

• Dress professionally (no hats, tank tops, shorts, flip flops)
• Speak respectfully to the judge and court officials
• Arrive 30 minutes early to make sure you aren’t late
• Eat before going, you might be waiting for a long time

Avoid getting in trouble with the court or breaking the rules of formality and decorum, and your hearing will go more smoothly. 

Can I Bring an Attorney To Maricopa County Juvenile Court Center?

Yes! If you are going to the Maricopa County Juvenile Court Center, you have the right to an attorney. Hiring a lawyer well in advance of your hearing is the best way to protect your rights. An attorney will help build your case and fight to secure a favorable outcome. 

Delinquency proceedings are extremely serious. Young people today have a hard enough time securing jobs and applying to colleges. By working with an experienced, aggressive attorney, you can fight hard to prevent being adjudicated delinquent. An attorney can also help fight for expungement if you are convicted. 

Contact the Juvenile Crime Lawyers at Orent Law Offices In Phoenix To Get Legal Assistance Today

For more information, contact the juvenile crime attorney Craig Orent. Give us a call at (480) 656-7301 or visit our law office at 11811 N Tatum Blvd UNIT 3031, Phoenix, AZ 85028. We offer a free case evaluation, so get the help you deserve today.