Your Rights and Responsibilities in a Juvenile Justice Court Proceeding

If you are involved in a juvenile justice court proceeding, you have the following rights and responsibilities:

  • The right to be notified of the court proceeding and the right to be present at any court hearing.
  • The right to an attorney. If you cannot afford to hire an attorney, an attorney will may be appointed to represent you at no cost. If you can afford to contribute toward the cost of the attorney, the court may order you to reimburse the county for all or part of the expense. You must be represented by an attorney in court.
  • If you are charged with a crime, you have the right to remain silent and do not have to prove that you are innocent. The State has to prove you guilty of the crime charged beyond a reasonable doubt.
  • The right to a trial or hearing and the right to cross-examine witnesses.
  • The right to be heard and to present evidence relevant to your case. You may use the subpoena power of the court to command witnesses to appear in court on your behalf.
  • The right to examine relevant court files and records.
  • The right to be provided with the services of an interpreter, if needed.
Copyright 2020 by Circuit Court of Cook County