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Juvenile Department Policies

Juvenile department policies regarding safety, security and court protocol.
Court House exterior

Juvenile Department Security Policy is a set of rules for entering the Washington County Juvenile Department building.

Juvenile Courtroom Protocol

Courtroom Attire

Witnesses and defendants appearing for Court must wear neat, clean civilian clothing, unless otherwise ordered by the court. Shorts, tank tops, muscle shirts, miniskirts, and hats are not allowed.

Courtroom Etiquette

  • Counselors are responsible for introducing cases before the Court. Proper names and titles should be used.
  • Counselors will introduce persons who wish to address the Court and tell the judge that the person wishes to speak.
  • All persons must rise from their seats when the judge enters. You must remain standing until instructed otherwise.
  • Counselors will request permission to approach the bench before doing so. Parents, youth, and others may not approach the bench.
  • Youth in custody may not have physical contact with others in the courtroom.
  • Conversation should be limited to essential exchanges while proceedings are in session.
  • Voices should be kept low during conversations outside of the courtroom.
  • Food, beverages and chewing gum are not permitted in the courtroom.
  • All cellular phones and electronic devices must be off before entering the courtroom.

The Court may address lapses in adherence to these standards.

PREA

The Juvenile Department PREA policy explains the Prison Rape Elimination Act. For more information about PREA go to https://www.prearesourcecenter.org.