Disposition Options

Overview

Options for juvenile offenders fall into one of 2 categories: Informal and Formal Proceedings. For more information, contact the Juvenile Probation Department at phone 972-204-7450.

  1. Informal Proceedings
  2. Formal Court Proceedings

Deferred Prosecution

This probation is a 3 to 6 month period of voluntary probation that is entered into by the child and his/her parents. If the child violates the terms of the probation, the State may elect to proceed with formal court adjudication. The juvenile prosecutor must consent to any deferred prosecution disposition for any child alleged to have committed a felony offense, misdemeanor, or weapons or assault referral.

First Offenders Program

This disposition consists of a 6-week educational course that the juvenile and parent / guardian must complete. Additional counseling services are available if needed. This disposition is typically reserved for first time offenders committing minor offenses.

Supervisory Caution

A disposition where the Probation Department refers the child and family to needed social services in the community. This disposition is typically reserved for first time offenders committing very minor offenses.