Utah Juvenile Warrants and Detention Release

Warrants and detention release for juvenile offenders in Utah are governed by the laws set forth in the Utah Code. There are specific reasons why a minor can be arrested and times when a minor may not be released from juvenile detention.

Juvenile Warrants

Once a petition is filed, a court may order a warrant for immediate arrest of a minor to be issued if the court believes that there is probable cause (which has been described in the petition or affidavit) to believe that:

• the minor committed an act that would be a felony if an adult had committed the same act;
• the minor failed to appear before the court after the appropriate person (the minor, a parent, guardian or custodian) has been legally served with a summons;
• there is a great likelihood the minor will not appear as required;
• the summons cannot be served and the minor’s whereabouts cannot be determined;
• the minor presents a danger to others or the public; or
• the minor has run away or escaped from a parent, guardian or custodian.

A pickup order for a minor may be requested (over the phone) by a probation officer or authorized person during non-business hours or under exigent circumstances, as long as the request is supported by an affidavit from the appropriate authority the next business day. Exigent circumstances would concern the protection of the community or minor.

Juvenile Detention Release

At a detention hearing, a court shall release a minor to custody of a parent, guardian or custodian unless the court has reason to believe the following:

• the minor will leave or be taken from the jurisdiction of the court unless detained;
• the alleged offense would be a felony if committed by an adult;
• the minor’s parent, guardian or custodian cannot be located, will not accept custody or will not bring the minor to court when summoned;
• the minor will be under witness intimidation;
• the minor’s past record indicates he may be a threat to the public safety;
• the minor has conduct or behavior problems or is likely to be engaged in further delinquency; or
• the minor has failed to appear for a court hearing within the past 12 months.

Any questions you have concerning these laws pertaining to juveniles should be directed to a competent Utah juvenile defense attorney. You can count on an experienced attorney to help you navigate the complex juvenile justice system.