Juveniles

Juveniles

The municipal court has jurisdiction over cases filed against juvenile defendants who are charged with most Class C Misdemeanors, with some exceptions.  State law requires juveniles, defined as persons under 17 years of age, to appear in open court, in person, with a parent or legal guardian.  The parent or legal guardian of a juvenile charged in Municipal Court must be present in court with the juvenile.

Juveniles who fail to appear or who fail to pay their fine and court costs/fees will be reported to the Texas Department of Public Safety which will suspend or deny issuance of a driver's license. If a juvenile disobeys a court order, the court may order DPS to suspend or deny issuance of a driver's license or find the child in contempt and assess a fine not to exceed $500, or refer the child to juvenile court for contempt.

Minors

Minors are persons who are at least 17 years of age and under 21 years of age who are charged with any type of alcohol-related offense which is classified as a class C misdemeanor.  Minors are required by State law to appear and enter their plea in open court:

• Anyone under 17 years of age, must appear in person before the Court and must be accompanied by his or her parent or legal guardian
• Anyone under 21 years of age, but over 17 years of age, must appear in person before the Court - a parent or legal guardian is not required to appear in court with you