An advocate will go with you to criminal court proceedings, protection from abuse hearings, media, medical, and/or police interviews.

The judicial decision that ends a criminal proceeding by a judgment of acquittal, conviction, or dismissal of the case.

 A child ten years of age or older whom the court has found to have committed a delinquent act and is in need of treatment, supervision or rehabilitation.

 A hearing in a juvenile case where a judge determines whether the facts as stated in the petition or warrant are true.

 Formal finding by the Juvenile Court that the juvenile is in need of treatment, supervision and rehabilitation and allows the court to supervise the juvenile for the maximum possible time allowed by law. It gives the juvenile a permanent record that in some cases may be used against him/her should the juvenile reoffend as an adult.

 An advocate will help you with any questions or problems you may have because of the crime. Such as unpaid bills, plans for you to feel safe, or child care if you need to go to court.

 A petition to a higher court for a reversal or modification of the judgment of a lower court.

 The act of arresting; seizure.

 Generally means an accused person’s appearance in a court at which the court may inform him/her of the charges against him/her, advise him/her of his/her rights, appoint a lawyer for him/her, and hear his/her plea

 The taking of a person into legal custody, as by officers of the law (under arrest).