NORTH CAROLINA OFFICE OF THE JUVENILE DEFENDER
PROVIDING TRAINING, TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE, AND POLICY GUIDANCE
Our mission
➜ To provide services and support to juvenile defenders
➜ To evaluate the current system of representation and make recommendations as needed
➜ To elevate the stature of juvenile delinquency representation
➜ To work with other juvenile justice actors to promote positive change in the juvenile justice system
Our office is a part of the Office of Indigent Defense Services (IDS). IDS has a number of responsibilities, including:
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Overseeing the provision of legal representation to indigent defendants and others entitled to counsel under North Carolina law
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Developing training, qualification, and performance standards to govern the provision of legal services to indigent persons
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Determining the most appropriate methods of delivering legal services to indigent persons in each judicial district
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Providing affordable services
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As part of Indigent Defense Services (IDS), OJD provides Juvenile Defenders Trainings for CLE credit hours, technical assistance, and juvenile defense policy guidance in North Carolina. The attorneys we assist represent juveniles in the North Carolina Court System. Juvenile Court currently serves youth between the ages of 6 and 17 in North Carolina.
Information for Juveniles
You are entitled to have an attorney represent you if must go to court on an allegation of delinquency in Juvenile Court. The paperwork that you have been given should have the name and contact information for your attorney. It is important that you contact your attorney as soon as possible, before discussing the case with anyone else. For more information on what to do if you must go to court or any other circumstance, please click Learn More.
Information for Parents
Having your child charged with a delinquent offense is stressful. Not just for your child but for you as the parent and we understand the toll it can take on everyday activities. Click Learn More for important information regarding your child in the juvenile justice system and ways that you may be involved.