A juvenile has a right to a prompt arraignment and a speedy trial. 18 U.S.C. § 5036. Juveniles detained pending adjudication must be brought to trial within 30 days from the date the detention began. Id. Violations of the speedy trial provision that are not in the “interest of justice” or at the request or cause of the defense, can result in dismissal of the information on motion of the juvenile or at the discretion of the court. Id. Thus, it is imperative that prosecutors plan in advance to try the case within the abbreviated timeline or justify any delay.

The law does not authorize jury trials for juveniles. McKeiver v. Pennsylvania, 403 U.S. 528 (1971).

[updated June 2024]