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1. Do I need an Attorney?

Under the Kansas Juvenile Justice Code juveniles are entitled to representation by an attorney. The juvenile and his/her parents may hire their own attorney; if not, the court will appoint an attorney to represent the juvenile.

2. What is the definition of Truancy?

Children are considered truant when they have accumulated 3 consecutive unexcused absences, 5 unexcused absences in any semester, or 7 unexcused absences in any school year. The attendance officer at each school building has the discretion to determine if reasons offered by the child or his/her parents is sufficient or if the absence will be considered unexcused. 

3. What is the parents' role in a juvenile proceeding?

When juveniles are charged with criminal activity, a summons and a copy of the complaint is served on the juvenile, the parents or parent having legal custody, the person with whom the juvenile is residing, or any other person designated by the County Attorney. 

4. What is the procedure when a report is received from the Police Department?

Once the Riley County Police Department generates a report, the County Attorney will review the report and decide  whether or not charges should be filed.

5. What services are available to parents?

When a juvenile is arrested or charged with criminal activity, they are required to participate in a Juvenile Intake Assessment through Riley County Community Corrections--Juvenile Division. Parents are encouraged to attend that assessment and provide any information to the intake worker. If needed, the family may be referred to appropriate community resources such as family and individual counseling, drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment or services offered by the Manhattan Area Department for Children and Families (DCF) office.