Unlike the adult court system, the main goal of juvenile court is rehabilitation of the juvenile. At the District Attorney’s Office we believe that there are several key components to juvenile rehabilitation. Juveniles who are adjudicated delinquent are placed on probation with the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ).
The DA’s Office Juvenile Division not only focuses on the juvenile offender but also makes sure that the voices of victims are heard. If you have been a victim of a crime committed by a juvenile, please contact HODAC (478) 953–5675 for victim’s assistance. We will try to do as much as within our power to make sure that victims are made whole.
Restitution
The Juvenile Court may order a juvenile to pay restitution for any damages they have caused. Restitution is considered a part of probation and must be paid.
When the Court orders Restitution the juvenile makes payments into the court. Once the juvenile has completed paying, the court will then make payment to the victim. Depending on the amount ordered, this process can sometimes take a considerable amount of time. Juveniles are often placed on probation from any where from six months up to two years.
Civil Damages
Under Georgia law, the parents of a minor child may also be liable for damages when the child commits willful or malicious acts.