Juvenile Division

The Juvenile Division handles cases heard on behalf of or against a minor who falls under the statutory age limit of 18 years. Juvenile cases are categorized as follows:

• Dependency cases involve all matters relating to juveniles who have been abandoned, abused, or neglected by those responsible for their care, or who are persistent runaways, habitually truant, or ungovernable.
• Delinquency cases involve minors charged with a violation of the law which, if committed by an adult, would be a felony or misdemeanor.

Confidentiality

All juvenile records are confidential, pursuant to Chapters 39.0132 and 985.04, Florida Statutes.

Because of the confidential nature of these proceedings, only select information will be provided over the phone. For additional information, you must appear in person with proper identification and be one of the following: the child, the parent of the child if parental rights are still intact, the attorney of record for the parent and/or child, or the guardian or legal custodian.

Court Costs & Restitution

Court costs and restitution payments for juvenile cases are made through the Juvenile Division. The restitution order indicates the amount of restitution due and the fees imposed. Payments are accepted by mail or in person.

Checks or money orders should be made payable to Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Clerk & Comptroller, and should include the juvenile's name and the complete case number. Payments must be remitted in U.S. currency. Out-of-state personal checks are not accepted.