If you are put in detention, a decision is made on how to move forward. This decision is based on the level of your charge and your level of risk. The juvenile department will choose one of these three options:
- no action,
- formal petition, or
- diversion/formal accountability agreement.
No Action
You will be released to your parent or guardian.
Formal Petition
If the district attorney decides to issue formal charges against you, they will file a petition. They will also issue a summons for you to appear in juvenile court. Read more about what happens if a formal petition is filed against you.
Diversion/Formal Accountability Agreement
The juvenile department might offer you a Formal Accountability Agreement (FAA). These happen before the court is involved. If you have an FAA, and you complete it, you will not have formal charges, and there will be no case on your court record.
If they offer you an FAA, you have the right to talk to an attorney and get their advice before you sign it.
An FAA may require you to:
- Participate in an assessment or treatment program
- Pay restitution
- Do community service
- Write a letter of responsibility
- Attend school
- Participate in a restorative dialogue with the victim
- Other conditions as appropriate to the offense and circumstances
Important: If you do not comply with the conditions of your FAA, a petition may be filed. This is why it might be a good idea to ask for an attorney before signing an FAA.