Your Child and the Kentucky Juvenile Court Process

young troubled man sitting on a chair in a blurred background

Having your child accused of a law violation can be an overwhelming and frightening experience for all family members. Kentucky’s juvenile justice system handles cases differently from the adult criminal system, with a greater focus on rehabilitation and treatment. The process, however, can still be complex, and knowing what to expect is what helps families navigate the system confidently and protect their child’s rights.

In this article, you will discover an overview of how the Kentucky juvenile court process works and what families should know at every stage.

Practice Areas Schedule a Consultation

Juvenile Court Jurisdiction in Kentucky

In Kentucky, cases involving minors who are accused of:

  • Status offenses, such as truancy, running away, or being beyond parental control.
  • Public offenses – criminal acts that would also be illegal for adults.
  • Dependency, neglect or abuse cases which involve child safety and welfare.

Most juvenile matters are held before the District Court in the county where the offense was committed.

The Initial Complaint and Intake Process

A juvenile case is typically initiated when a complaint is filed by someone, usually law enforcement, a school administrator, or a parent. After a complaint has been filed, the case is referred to the Court Designated Worker (CDW).

The CDW considers the complaint and decides whether the case:

  • Should be dismissed.
  • Can be handled through an informal diversion agreement, or,
  • Must be referred to juvenile court for formal proceedings.

Diversion is often granted for first-time or low-level offenses and provides a child with the opportunity to fulfill certain requirements – counseling, community service, or school attendance – rather than going to court. 

Successful completion typically means that the complaint will be dismissed.

Detention Decisions

If a child is taken into custody, Kentucky law prohibits locking juveniles in adult jails. Instead, they may be held in a juvenile detention facility—but only under specific circumstances.

A detention hearing must be held within 24 hours to determine whether:

  • The child can be safely released to a parent or guardian.
  • Non-secure alternatives (such as monitoring or supervision) suffice.
  • Secure detention is required because of safety or flight-risk issues.

Parents are entitled to be present and to participate in this hearing.

The Adjudication Hearing: Determining the Facts

If the case proceeds to court, the next step is the adjudication hearing, which is like a trial, but is adapted for juveniles.

Key points include:

  • There is no jury – instead, the judge hears the evidence.
  • The standard is “beyond a reasonable doubt” for public offenses.
  • A child has the right to an attorney and should never face this process alone.
  • The judge determines whether the child committed the alleged offense.

The case is dismissed if the judge finds that the allegations are unproven. If the judge sustains the complaint, the case goes to disposition.

The Disposition Hearing: What Happens Next

The disposition hearing is Kentucky’s version of sentencing, but focuses on rehabilitation, not punishment.

The possible outcomes may be:

  • Probation or supervision.
  • Counseling, treatment programs, or substance use services.
  • Community service.
  • Restitution to victims.
  • Placement outside the home, in serious cases.

For status offenses, Kentucky law favors services and family involvement over harsh consequences.

Public offenses, especially serious or violent ones, can result in more restrictive outcomes, and some are even transferred to adult court. The transfers, however, are only used for the most severe felony-level crimes.

Your Role as a Parent

Parents and guardians play a very important role in the Kentucky juvenile court process. Courts expect parents to:

  • Attend hearings.
  • Participate in recommended programs.
  • Support their child’s compliance with court orders.

A positive and cooperative family environment can strengthen a child’s case and can lead to better outcomes.

Lawyer shaking hands with a client

Why Legal Representation Matters

The juvenile court process may impact a child’s education, mental health, future opportunities, and even their permanent record. Having an experienced attorney ensures:

  • Your child’s rights are fully protected.
  • Evidence is properly challenged.
  • Diversion, treatment, or rehabilitation options are pursued.
  • Long-term consequences are reduced to a minimum.

Hoffman Walker & Knauf Can Guide Your Family Through the Process 

If your child is facing the Kentucky juvenile court system, you do not have to go through it alone. Our attorneys at Hoffman Walker & Knauf understand the unique challenges of juvenile cases and work to protect your child’s future at every stage. 

Contact our office today to speak with a Kentucky juvenile defense attorney who will stand beside your family and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.