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All About Juvenile Detention

What happens to your belongings?

Detention staff will take your belongings, check them for contraband, put them in a labeled bag, and put them in secure storage. They will return your belongings to you upon your release. They may release belongings to your parents or guardians. You can request your clothes be washed by the staff.

What happens in the first 24 hours?

  • You will be held in the intake area until you get assigned to a unit. In the intake process, you are asked a standard set of questions.
  • You may be asked to take some or all your clothes off so staff can complete their required search.
  • You will be searched by same-gender staff, then given privacy to take a shower.
  • You will be given a set of clothing and sheets for your bed.
  • You may be asked to study a rulebook and then take and pass a test, to help you understand the expectations of detention. The test is pretty simple if you have studied the rulebook.

Unit Placement

Placement in a unit is typically based on the results of an assessment unless you are in a detention facility with only one unit. Larger facilities have multiple units and they are separated by your individual needs.

Typical Meal Schedule

  • Breakfast: Typically served around 7 a.m., before school.
  • Lunch: Typically served at noon, during school lunch break.
  • Dinner: Typically served around 5 p.m., after school.
If you have dietary restrictions, gluten-free, vegetarian, and other options are available. You need to let the intake staff or nurse know so they can help you.

Visitation and Phone Calls

In-Person Visits: Visits happen at certain times of the day and week. Some visits will be only through a glass window, and other visits may be allowed in person, in a designated area, if pre-approved by your juvenile court counselor.

Phone Calls: Most facilities allow you to have phone calls on a set schedule each week. Phone calls are typically limited in length, except for calls with your attorney.

Hygiene and Health Care

Hygiene items are provided but limited. You can ask for additional products you may need. The facility typically provides haircuts. They will likely require you to take off all piercings, wigs, or hair extensions.

Education

  • Detention facilities have an agreement with the Oregon Department of Education to provide you with a standardized education.
  • You may be able to continue your existing school classes while in detention.
  • You will be expected to attend education classes consistently while in detention.