What is the power of a juvenile court judge?

A juvenile court judge in Texas has the power to handle a variety of cases involving minors. The judge has authority to make decisions in both criminal and civil cases relating to juveniles. In criminal cases, the judge can determine guilt or innocence and decide what type of punishment should be imposed. For example, the judge can order a juvenile to attend a rehabilitation program, be placed on probation, or even to be detained in a correctional facility. In civil cases, the judge can decide whether a minor is fit to live with their parents, or if they should be sent to foster care. The juvenile court judge also has power to order a minor to receive counseling or drug and alcohol treatment if needed. The judge can also order a minor to submit to periodic drug tests or to complete community service. If a minor does not comply with the order, the judge can take further action. The judge has the power to impose sanctions, such as suspending a minor’s driver’s license, requiring that a minor attend school, or ordering the payment of a fine. The juvenile court judge also has the power to make rulings on family issues. The judge can award custody of a minor to either parent, order the payment of child support, and make modification orders to parenting time arrangements. The judge has the authority to enforce court orders, hold a minor or parent in contempt, or take other appropriate action.

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