Juvenile Law
Is an area of law pertaining to persons under the age of eighteen. This includes both Child in Need of Assistance cases and Juvenile Delinquency cases.
Child in Need of Assistance Cases (CINA)
A Child in Need of Assistance Case (CINA) is where a child is found to be in need of the Court’s assistance under the criteria set out in the Iowa Code. There are many reasons a child can be found to be in need of assistance. Some of the most common are exposing a child to illegal drugs, physical, sexual or emotional abuse, failure to provide adequate supervision, or due to a parent’s mental health issues. The process begins when the State files a petition alleging the child to be in need of the Court’s assistance. The parents will have an opportunity to respond but if the Judge decides that the child needs the Court’s involvement, the Court will decide where the child lives, and what services will be provided to the family.
Juvenile Delinquency
Juvenile Delinquency is when a minor commits any violation of a state or local law that would be considered a crime if committed by an adult. The process is similar to that of an adult charged with a crime although the minor must have an attorney representing them if the matter proceeds to court.
Parent Representation
A parent is entitled to representation in a Child in Need of Assistance case. A parent should retain their own attorney as soon as possible after the case has been filed. Or, if they cannot afford to hire an attorney, they may apply for a court appointed attorney.
Guardian Ad Litem (GAL)
The Court will appoint an attorney to represent the legal interests of a minor child. A Guardian Ad Litem represents the child and will make an independent decision regarding the best interest of the child and make recommendations to the Court.