Chapter 27-20 Uniform Juvenile Court Act

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CHAPTER 27-20 UNIFORM JUVENILE COURT ACT 27-20-01. Interpretation

Repealed by S.L. 2007, ch. 274, § 36

27-20-02. Definitions. (Effective through December 31, 2019) As used in this chapter: 1

"Abandon" means: a

As to a parent of a child not in the custody of that parent, failure by the noncustodial parent significantly without justifiable cause: (1) To communicate with the child; or (2) To provide for the care and support of the child as required by law; or As to a parent of a child in that parent's custody: (1) To leave the child for an indefinite period without making firm and agreed plans, with the child's immediate caregiver, for the parent's resumption of physical custody; (2) Following the child's birth or treatment at a hospital, to fail to arrange for the child's discharge within ten days after the child no longer requires hospital care; or (3) To willfully fail to furnish food, shelter, clothing, or medical attention reasonably sufficient to meet the child's needs

"Abandoned infant" means a child who has been abandoned before reaching the age of one year

"Aggravated circumstances" means circumstances in which a parent: a

Abandons, tortures, chronically abuses, or sexually abuses a child; Fails to make substantial, meaningful efforts to secure treatment for the parent's addiction, mental illness, behavior disorder, or any combination of those conditions for a period equal to the lesser of: (1) One year; or (2) One-half of the child's lifetime, measured in days, as of the date a petition alleging aggravated circumstances is filed; Engages in conduct prohibited under sections 12.1-20-01 through 12.1-20-08 or chapter 12.1-27.2, in which a child is the victim or intended victim; Engages in conduct that constitutes one of the following crimes, or of an offense under the laws of another jurisdiction which requires proof of substantially similar elements: (1) A violation of section 12.1-16-01, 12.1-16-02, 12.1-16-03, or 14-09-22 in which the victim is another child of the parent; (2) Aiding, abetting, attempting, conspiring, or soliciting a violation of section 12.1-16-01, 12.1-16-02, or 12.1-16-03 in which the victim is a child of the parent; or (3) A violation of section 12.1-17-02 in which the victim is a child of the parent and has suffered serious bodily injury; Engages or attempts to engage in conduct, prohibited under sections 12.1-17-01 through 12.1-17-04, in which a child is the victim or intended victim; f. Has been incarcerated under a sentence for which the latest release date is: (1) (2) In the case of a child age nine or older, after the child's majority; or In the case of a child, after the child is twice the child's current age, measured in days; Subjects the child to prenatal exposure to chronic or severe use of alcohol or any controlled substance as defined in chapter 19-03.1 in a manner not lawfully prescribed by a practitioner; or Allows the child to be present in an environment subjecting the child to exposure to a controlled substance, chemical substance, or drug paraphernalia as prohibited by section 19-03.1-22.2

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"Child" means an individual who is: a. Under the age of eighteen years and is not married; or b. Under the age of twenty years with respect to a delinquent act committed while under the age of eighteen years

"Custodian" means a person, other than a parent or legal guardian, who stands in loco parentis to the child or a person to whom legal custody of the child has been given by order of a court

"Delinquent act" means an act designated a crime under the law, including local ordinances or resolutions of this state, or of another state if the act occurred in that state, or under federal law, and the crime does not fall under subdivision c of subsection 19

"Delinquent child" means a child who has committed a delinquent act and is in need of treatment or rehabilitation

"Deprived child" means a child who: a

Is without proper parental care or control, subsistence, education as required by law, or other care or control necessary for the child's physical, mental, or emotional health, or morals, and the deprivation is not due primarily to the lack of financial means of the child's parents, guardian, or other custodian; b. Has been placed for care or adoption in violation of law; c. Has been abandoned by the child's parents, guardian, or other custodian; d

Is without proper parental care, control, or education as required by law, or other care and control necessary for the child's well-being because of the physical, mental, emotional, or other illness or disability of the child's parent or parents, and that such lack of care is not due to a willful act of commission or act of omission by the child's parents, and care is requested by a parent; Is in need of treatment and whose parents, guardian, or other custodian have refused to participate in treatment as ordered by the juvenile court; f. Was subject to prenatal exposure to chronic or severe use of alcohol or any controlled substance as defined in chapter 19-03.1 in a manner not lawfully prescribed by a practitioner; Is present in an environment subjecting the child to exposure to a controlled substance, chemical substance, or drug paraphernalia as prohibited by section 19-03.1-22.2

Is a victim of human trafficking as defined in title 12.1

"Detention" means a physically secure facility with locked doors and does not include shelter care, attendant care, or home detention

"Director" means the director of juvenile court or the director's designee

"Fit and willing relative or other appropriate individual" means a relative or other individual who has been determined, after consideration of an assessment that includes a criminal history record investigation under chapter 50-11.3, to be a qualified person under chapters 27-20.1 and 30.1-27, and who consents in writing to act as a legal guardian

"Home" when used in the phrase "to return home" means the abode of the child's parent with whom the child formerly resided

"Juvenile court" means the district court of this state

"Juvenile drug court" means a program established in a judicial district consisting of intervention and assessment of juveniles involved in forms of substance abuse; frequent drug testing; intense judicial and probation supervision; individual, group, and family counseling; substance abuse treatment; educational opportunities; and use of sanctions and incentives

"Permanency hearing" means a hearing, conducted with respect to a child who is in foster care, to determine the permanency plan for the child which includes: a. Whether and, if applicable, when the child will be returned to the parent; b. Whether and, if applicable, when the child will be placed for adoption and the g

state will file a petition for termination of parental rights; Page No. 2 c. Whether and, if applicable, when a fit and willing relative or other appropriate individual will be appointed as a legal guardian; d. Whether and, if applicable, to place siblings in the same foster care, relative, guardianship, or adoptive placement, unless it is determined that the joint placement would be contrary to the safety or well-being of any of the siblings; e. Whether and, if applicable, in the case of siblings removed from their home who are not jointly placed, to provide for frequent visitation or other ongoing interaction between the siblings, unless it is determined to be contrary to the safety or well-being of any of the siblings; In cases in which a compelling reason has been shown that it would not be in the child's best interests to return home, to have parental rights terminated, to be placed for adoption, to be placed with a fit and willing relative, or to be placed with a legal guardian, whether and, if applicable, when the child, aged sixteen or older, will be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement. The court shall: (1) Ask the child whether the child has a desired permanency outcome of f

another planned permanent living arrangement, (3) (2) Make a judicial determination explaining why another planned permanent living arrangement is the best permanency plan for the child, and Identify the compelling reasons it continues not to be in the best interest of the child to return home, be placed for adoption, be placed with a legal guardian, or be placed with a fit and willing relative; In the case of a child who has been placed in foster care outside the state in which the home of the parents is located, or if the parents maintain separate homes, outside the state in which the home of the parent who was the child's primary caregiver is located, whether out-of-state placements have been considered. If the child is currently in an out-of-state placement, the court shall determine whether the placement continues to be appropriate and in the child's best interests; and In the case of a child who has attained age fourteen, the services needed to assist the child to make the transition to successful adulthood

"Protective supervision" means supervision ordered by the court of children found to be deprived or unruly

"Relative" means: a

The child's grandparent, great-grandparent, sibling, half-sibling, aunt, great-aunt, uncle, great-uncle, nephew, niece, or first cousin; An individual with a relationship to the child, derived through a current or former spouse of the child's parent, similar to a relationship described in subdivision a; An individual recognized in the child's community as having a relationship with the child similar to a relationship described in subdivision a; or The child's stepparent

"Shelter care" means temporary care of a child in physically unrestricted facilities

"Unruly child" means a child who: a

Is habitually and without justification truant from school; Is habitually disobedient of the reasonable and lawful commands of the child's parent, guardian, or other custodian and is ungovernable or who is willfully in a situation dangerous or injurious to the health, safety, or morals of the child or others; c. Has committed an offense applicable only to a child, except for an offense committed by a minor fourteen years of age or older under subsection 2 of section 12.1-31-03 or an equivalent local ordinance or resolution; d. Has committed an offense in violation of section 5-01-08; or e

Is under the age of fourteen years and has purchased, possessed, smoked, or used tobacco, tobacco-related products, electronic smoking devices, or alternative nicotine products in violation of subsection 2 of section 12.1-31-03; and In any of the foregoing instances is in need of treatment or rehabilitation

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As used in this subsection, "electronic smoking devices" and "alternative nicotine products" have the same meaning as in section 12.1-31-03

"Willfully" has the meaning provided in section 12.1-02-02

Definitions. (Effective after December 31, 2019) As used in this chapter: "Abandon" means: 1

"Abandoned infant" means a child who has been abandoned before reaching the age of one year

"Aggravated circumstances" means circumstances in which a parent: a

"Child" means an individual who is: a. Under the age of eighteen years and is not married; or b

Page No. 4 b. Under the age of twenty years with respect to a delinquent act committed while under the age of eighteen years

"Custodian" means a person, other than a parent or legal guardian, who stands in loco parentis to the child or a person to whom legal custody of the child has been given by order of a court

"Delinquent child" means a child who has committed a delinquent act and is in need of treatment or rehabilitation

"Deprived child" means a child who: a

Is a victim of human trafficking as defined in title 12.1

"Detention" means a physically secure facility with locked doors and does not include shelter care, attendant care, or home detention

"Director" means the director of juvenile court or the director's designee

"Home" when used in the phrase "to return home" means the abode of the child's parent with whom the child formerly resided

"Host county" means the county within the human service zone in which the human service zone administrative office is located and in which the human service zone team members are employed

"Human service zone" means a county or consolidated group of counties administering human services within a designated area in accordance with an agreement or plan approved by the department

"Juvenile court" means the district court of this state

"Permanency hearing" means a hearing, conducted with respect to a child who is in foster care, to determine the permanency plan for the child which includes: 5

Page No. 5 a. Whether and, if applicable, when the child will be returned to the parent; b. Whether and, if applicable, when the child will be placed for adoption and the state will file a petition for termination of parental rights; c. Whether and, if applicable, when a fit and willing relative or other appropriate individual will be appointed as a legal guardian; d. Whether and, if applicable, to place siblings in the same foster care, relative, guardianship, or adoptive placement, unless it is determined that the joint placement would be contrary to the safety or well-being of any of the siblings; e. Whether and, if applicable, in the case of siblings removed from their home who are not jointly placed, to provide for frequent visitation or other ongoing interaction between the siblings, unless it is determined to be contrary to the safety or well-being of any of the siblings; In cases in which a compelling reason has been shown that it would not be in the child's best interests to return home, to have parental rights terminated, to be placed for adoption, to be placed with a fit and willing relative, or to be placed with a legal guardian, whether and, if applicable, when the child, aged sixteen or older, will be placed in another planned permanent living arrangement. The court shall: (1) Ask the child whether the child has a desired permanency outcome of f

"Protective supervision" means supervision ordered by the court of children found to be deprived or unruly

"Relative" means: a

"Shelter care" means temporary care of a child in physically unrestricted facilities

"Unruly child" means a child who: a

Is under the age of fourteen years and has purchased, possessed, smoked, or used tobacco, tobacco-related products, electronic smoking devices, or Page No. 6 18

alternative nicotine products in violation of subsection 2 of section 12.1-31-03; and In any of the foregoing instances is in need of treatment or rehabilitation

As used in this subsection, "electronic smoking devices" and "alternative nicotine products" have the same meaning as in section 12.1-31-03

"Willfully" has the meaning provided in section 12.1-02-02

27-20-02.1. Presumption of age

In determining an individual's age for purposes of this chapter, the individual's date of birth as provided by any of the following is presumed to be the individual's legal date of birth: a

A state government in the form of a birth certificate, other state-issued identification, or a certified copy of a birth certificate that includes the individual's date of birth; The United States government in the form of a tribal identification document, military identification, passport, passport card, permanent resident card, certificate of United States citizenship, certificate of naturalization, border crossing card, visa, or other entry document that includes the individual's date of birth; or A foreign government in the form of a passport, driver's license, or other foreign government-issued identity document that includes the individual's date of birth. If there is a conflict between government issued forms, a government issued birth certificate or a certified copy of a birth certificate takes precedence

The presumption in subsection 1 may be rebutted by clear and convincing evidence to the contrary

27-20-03. Jurisdiction

The juvenile court has exclusive original jurisdiction of the following proceedings, which are governed by this chapter: a

Proceedings in which a child is alleged to be delinquent, unruly, or deprived; Proceedings for the termination of parental rights except when a part of an adoption proceeding; Proceedings arising under section 27-20-30.1; and c

d. Civil forfeiture proceedings arising under chapter 19-03.1 or section 29-31.1-04 for which a child is alleged to have possessed forfeitable property. The juvenile court shall conduct the proceedings in accordance with the procedures provided for under sections 19-03.1-36 through 19-03.1-37

The juvenile court also has exclusive original jurisdiction of the following proceedings, which are governed by the laws relating thereto without regard to the other provisions of this chapter: a

Proceedings to obtain judicial consent to the marriage, employment, or enlistment in the armed services of a child, if consent is required by law; Proceedings under the interstate compact on juveniles; Proceedings under the interstate compact on the placement of children; and Proceedings arising under section 50-06-06.13 to obtain a judicial determination that the placement of a severely emotionally disturbed child in an out-of-home treatment program is in the best interests of the child

27-20-04. Concurrent jurisdiction

Repealed by S.L. 1991, ch. 326, § 203

27-20-05. Juvenile court personnel

The supreme court may provide for the appointment by administrative and personnel rules of the necessary juvenile court officers, clerical personnel, and other specialized Page No. 7 2

personnel within the limits of legislative appropriations to assist the court in carrying out its juvenile probation and supervisor functions

2. Detention center facilities and personnel must be funded by the county

All salaries, per diem, and other compensation payable to juvenile court personnel, all necessary books, forms, stationery, office supplies and equipment, postage, telephone, travel, and other necessary expenses incurred in carrying out the provisions of this chapter must be borne by the state, except for suitable quarters for conducting official business and lights and fuel which must be funded by the county and except as provided by subsection 1 of section 27-20-49

27-20-05.1. County juvenile supervisors - Authorization for mill levy

Repealed by S.L. 1981, ch. 320, § 112

27-20-06. Powers and duties of director of juvenile court

For the purpose of carrying out the objectives and purposes of this chapter and subject to the limitations of this chapter or imposed by the court, a director shall: a. Make investigations, reports, and recommendations to the juvenile court

b. Receive and examine complaints and charges of delinquency or unruly conduct or deprivation of a child for the purpose of considering the commencement of proceedings under this chapter

Supervise and assist a child placed on probation for delinquency or unruly conduct, or both

d. Make appropriate referrals to other private or public agencies of the community if their assistance appears to be needed or desirable

Issue a temporary custody order concerning a child who is referred to the director's supervision or care as a delinquent, unruly, or deprived child. Except as provided by this chapter, a director does not have the powers of a law enforcement officer

Administer oaths

Take acknowledgments of instruments for the purpose of this chapter

h. Make such temporary order not to exceed ninety-six hours for the custody and control of a child alleged to be deprived as may be deemed appropriate. The order must be reduced to writing within twenty-four hours, excluding holidays and weekends

Perform all other functions designated by this chapter or under section 27-05-30 or by order of the court pursuant thereto, including, if qualified, those of a referee

Issue an order to a law enforcement authority to transport a child to and from a specified location

k. Receive and examine requests for review of a child's placement at a qualified residential treatment program under the Family First Prevention Services Act [Pub. L. 115-123; 132 Stat. 64; 42 U.S.C. 675]

l. Receive and examine petitions to establish, modify, or terminate a guardianship i

of a minor under chapter 27-20.1

Any of the foregoing functions may be performed in another state if authorized by the court of this state and permitted by the laws of the other state

27-20-07. Referees

Repealed by S.L. 1985, ch. 334, § 5

27-20-08. Commencement of proceedings

A proceeding under this chapter may be commenced: 1

By transfer of a case from another court as provided in section 27-20-09; or In other cases by the filing of a petition as provided in this chapter. The petition and all other documents in the proceeding must be entitled "In the interest of _______________, a child". If a child is in shelter care, the petition must be filed within Page No. 8 thirty days of the shelter care hearing under section 27-20-17. If the petition is not filed, the child must be released from shelter care

27-20-09. Transfer from other courts

If it appears to the court in a criminal proceeding, except for an offense transferred under section 27-20-34, that the defendant is a child subject to the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, the court shall immediately transfer the case to the juvenile court together with a copy of the accusatory pleading and other papers, documents, and transcripts of testimony relating to the case. It shall order that the defendant be taken immediately to the juvenile court or to a place of detention designated by the juvenile court, or release the defendant to the custody of the defendant's parent, guardian, custodian, or other person legally responsible for the defendant, to be brought before the juvenile court at a time designated by that court. The accusatory pleading may serve in lieu of a petition in the juvenile court unless that court directs the filing of a petition

27-20-10. Informal adjustment

The admitted facts bring the case within the jurisdiction of the court; Before a petition is filed, the director of juvenile court or other officer of the court designated by it, subject to its direction, may give counsel and advice to the parties and impose conditions for the conduct and control of the child with a view to an informal adjustment if it appears: a

b. Counsel, advice, and conditions, if any, for the conduct and control of the child without an adjudication would be in the best interest of the public and the child; and The child and the child's parents, guardian, or other custodian consent thereto with knowledge that consent is not obligatory

The giving of counsel and advice and any conditions imposed for the conduct and control of the child cannot extend beyond nine months from the day commenced unless extended by the court for an additional period not to exceed six months and does not authorize the detention of the child if not otherwise permitted by this chapter. If the child admits to driving or being in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 39-08-01 or an equivalent ordinance, the child may be required to pay a fine as a condition imposed under this section

An incriminating statement made by a participant to the person giving counsel or advice and in the discussions or conferences incident thereto may not be used against the declarant over objection in any hearing except in a hearing on disposition in a juvenile court proceeding or in a criminal proceeding against the declarant after conviction for the purpose of a presentence investigation

27-20-11. Venue. (Effective through December 31, 2019) A proceeding under this chapter may be commenced in the county in which the child resides. A proceeding under section 27-20-30.1 must be commenced in the administrative county, as determined by the department of human services. If delinquent or unruly conduct is alleged, the proceeding may be commenced in the county in which the acts constituting the alleged delinquent or unruly conduct occurred. If deprivation is alleged, the proceeding may be brought in the county in which the child is present when it is commenced, the county in which the child has resided the majority of the thirty days prior to the date of the alleged deprivation, or the county where the alleged deprivation has occurred. The court shall determine the appropriate venue for a deprivation action based upon the best interests of the child

Venue. (Effective after December 31, 2019) A proceeding under this chapter may be commenced in the county in which the child resides. A proceeding under section 27-20-30.1 must be commenced in the county within the administrative human service zone, as determined by the department of human services. If delinquent or unruly conduct is alleged, the proceeding may be commenced in the county in which the acts constituting the alleged delinquent or unruly conduct occurred. If deprivation is alleged, the proceeding may be brought in the county in Page No. 9 which the child is present when it is commenced, the county in which the child has resided the majority of the thirty days prior to the date of the alleged deprivation, or the county where the alleged deprivation has occurred. The court shall determine the appropriate venue for a deprivation action based upon the best interests of the child

27-20-12. Transfer to another juvenile court within the state

If the child resides in a county of the state and the proceeding is commenced in a court of another county, the court, on motion of a party or on its own motion made prior to final disposition and in consultation with the court in the other county, may transfer the proceeding to the county of the child's residence for further action. Like transfer may be made if the residence of the child changes pending the proceeding. The proceeding must be transferred if the child has been adjudicated delinquent or unruly and other proceedings involving the child are pending in the juvenile court of the county of the child's residence

2. Certified copies of all legal and social documents and records pertaining to the case on file with the clerk of the court must accompany the transfer

27-20-13. Taking into custody

A child may be taken into custody: a

Pursuant to an order of the court under this chapter; Pursuant to the laws of arrest; By a law enforcement officer if there are reasonable grounds to believe: (1) That the child is suffering from illness or injury or is in immediate danger from the child's surroundings, and that the child's removal is necessary; or (2) That the child has run away from the child's parents, guardian, or other custodian; or d

By order of the director made pursuant to subdivision h of subsection 1 of section 27-20-06

The taking of a child into custody is not an arrest, except for the purpose of determining its validity under the Constitution of North Dakota or the Constitution of the United States

A law enforcement officer may transport a child to and from detention

4. Without a compelling reason to the contrary, a court order transferring a child into custody shall provide a reasonable period of time to facilitate a beneficial transition for the child and other parties involved

27-20-14. Detention of child - Juvenile drug court exception

A child taken into custody may not be detained or placed in shelter care prior to the hearing on the petition unless the child's detention or care is required to protect the person or property of others or of the child or because the child may abscond or be removed from the jurisdiction of the court or because the child has no parent, guardian, or custodian or other person able to provide supervision and care for the child and return the child to the court when required, or an order for the child's detention or shelter care has been made by the court pursuant to this chapter

Law enforcement shall use a detention screening tool to assure the appropriate use of detention. The juvenile court shall establish the detention screening tool, which must include objective factors to aid in the decision of placement of the child

If a child is participating in a juvenile drug court program as a result of an adjudication for a delinquent offense, the drug court may order the child detained in a juvenile detention center operated pursuant to chapter 12-44.1. The child may be detained twice during the child's participation in the program but the total period of detention under this subsection may not exceed four days in a one-year period

Page No. 10 27-20-15. Release or delivery to court

A person taking a child into custody, with all reasonable speed and without first taking the child elsewhere, shall: a. Release the child to the child's parent, guardian, custodian, or other responsible adult able and willing to assume custody of the child, upon that individual's promise to bring the child before the court when requested by the court, unless the child's detention or shelter care is warranted or required under section 27-20-14; or Bring the child before the court or deliver the child to a detention or shelter care facility designated by the court or to a medical facility if the child is believed to suffer from a serious physical condition or illness which requires prompt treatment. The person taking the child into custody shall promptly give notice thereof, together with a statement of the reason for taking the child into custody, to a parent, guardian, or other custodian and to the court. Any temporary detention or questioning of the child necessary to comply with this subsection must conform to the procedures and conditions prescribed by this chapter and rules of court

If a parent, guardian, or other custodian, when requested, fails to bring the child before the court as provided in subsection 1, the court may issue its warrant directing that the child be taken into custody and brought before the court

If a child is ordered detained by a juvenile drug court, notice under this section is not required

27-20-16. Place of detention

A child alleged to be delinquent or unruly may be detained only in: a

A licensed foster home or a home approved by the court; A facility operated by a licensed child welfare agency; A detention home or center for delinquent or unruly children which is under the direction or supervision of the court or other public authority or of a private agency approved by the court; Any other suitable place or facility, including a medical facility for the treatment of mental illness, alcoholism, or drug addiction, designated by the court; or A jail or other facility for the detention of adults only if the facility in subdivision c is not available, the detention is in a room separate and removed from those for adults, it appears to the satisfaction of the court or the juvenile supervisor, intake officer, or other authorized officer of the court, that public safety and protection reasonably require detention, and it is so authorized

The official in charge of a jail or other facility for the detention of adult offenders or persons charged with crime shall inform the court immediately if a person who is or appears to be a child is received at the facility and shall bring the person before the court upon request or deliver the person to a detention or shelter care facility designated by the court

If a case is transferred to another court for criminal prosecution, the child may be transferred to the appropriate officer or detention facility in accordance with the law governing the detention of persons charged with crime

A child alleged to be deprived may be placed in shelter care only in the facilities stated in subdivisions a, b, and d of subsection 1 and may not be detained in a jail or other facility intended or used for the detention of adults charged with criminal offenses or of children alleged to be delinquent or unruly

Effective January 1, 1988, a child alleged to be unruly may be detained only in the facilities listed in subdivisions a, b, c, and d of subsection 1

27-20-17. Release from detention or shelter care - Hearing - Conditions of release

If a child is brought before the court or delivered to a detention or shelter care facility designated by the court, the director, the intake officer, or other authorized officer of the court shall immediately make an investigation and release the child unless it Page No. 11 2

appears that the child's detention or shelter care is warranted or required under section 27-20-14

If the child is not released, a judge or referee shall hold a detention or shelter care hearing promptly and not later than ninety-six hours after the child is placed in detention or shelter care to determine whether there is probable cause to believe the child has committed the delinquent or unruly acts alleged, or the child is deprived and whether the child's detention or shelter care is required under section 27-20-14. A hearing is not required if the child has been ordered detained by a juvenile drug court. Reasonable notice, either oral or written, stating the time, place, and purpose of the detention or shelter care hearing must be given to the child and, if they can be found, to the child's parents, guardian, or other custodian. Prior to the commencement of the hearing, the court shall inform the parties of their right to counsel and to counsel at public expense if they are indigent, and of the child's right to remain silent with respect to any allegations of delinquency or unruly conduct

If continued shelter care is required, the judge or referee may order that the child be kept in shelter care for no more than sixty days from the date of the shelter care hearing

As a condition to the child's release from shelter care, the court may order a parent, guardian, custodian, or any other member of the household in which the child resides to vacate the child's residence if probable cause exists to believe that the parent, guardian, custodian, or other member of the household has committed a sexual offense with or against the child, pursuant to sections 12.1-20-03 through 12.1-20-07 or section 12.1-20-11, and the presence of the alleged sexual offender in the child's residence presents a danger to the child's life or physical, emotional, or mental health. The court may order that the parent, guardian, or custodian not allow contact with an identified person if the court determines the order is in the best interests of the child

If the child is not released and a parent, guardian, or custodian has not been notified of the hearing, did not appear or waive appearance at the hearing, and files an affidavit showing these facts, the court shall rehear the matter without unnecessary delay and order the child's release, unless it appears from the hearing that the child's detention or shelter care is required under section 27-20-14

27-20-18. Subpoena

Superseded by N.D.R.Juv.P., Rule 13

27-20-19. Petition - Preliminary determination

A petition alleging delinquency or unruliness under this chapter must be reviewed by the director, the court, or other person authorized by the court to determine whether the filing of the petition is in the best interest of the public and the child

27-20-20. Petition - Who may prepare and file - Review

A petition may be prepared and filed by the state's attorney. A petition may also be prepared by any other person, including a law enforcement officer, who has knowledge of the facts alleged or is informed and believes that they are true. A petition prepared by any person other than a state's attorney may not be filed unless the director, the court, or other person authorized by the court has determined the filing of the petition is in the best interest of the public and the child

27-20-20.1. Petition to terminate parental rights - When brought - Definitions. (Effective through December 31, 2019) 1

A petition to terminate parental rights may be made as provided under this section and section 27-20-45

Except as provided in subsection 3, a petition for termination of parental rights must be filed: Page No. 12 a

If the child has been in foster care, in the custody of the department or county social service board, or, in cases arising out of an adjudication by the court that a child is an unruly child, the division of juvenile services, for at least four hundred fifty out of the previous six hundred sixty nights; b. Within sixty days after a court of competent jurisdiction has found the child to be an abandoned infant; or c. Within sixty days after a court of competent jurisdiction has convicted the child's parent of one of the following crimes, or of an offense under the laws of another jurisdiction which requires proof of substantially similar elements: (1) A violation of section 12.1-16-01, 12.1-16-02, or 12.1-16-03, or subsection 1 of section 14-09-22 in which the victim is another child of the parent; (2) Aiding, abetting, attempting, conspiring, or soliciting a violation of section 12.1-16-01, 12.1-16-02, or 12.1-16-03 in which the victim is a child of the parent; or (3) A violation of section 12.1-17-02 in which the victim is a child of the parent and has suffered serious bodily injury

A petition for termination of parental rights need not be filed if: a

The child is being cared for by a relative approved by the department in collaboration with the county social service board; The department or county social service board has documented in the case plan a compelling reason for determining that filing such a petition would not be in the child's best interests and has notified the court that the documentation is available for review by the court; or The department or county social service board has determined: (1) Reasonable efforts to preserve and reunify the family are required under b

section 27-20-32.2 to be made with respect to the child; (2) The case plan provides such services are necessary for the safe return of (3) Such services have not been provided consistent with time periods the child to the child's home; and described in the case plan

For purposes of subsection 2, a child in foster care entered foster care on the earlier of: a

The date of the court's order if the court: (1) Made a finding that the child has been subjected to child abuse or neglect; (2) Determined that it is unsafe or contrary to the welfare of the child to remain in the home; and (3) Granted custody of the child to the department or county social service board or, in cases arising out of an adjudication by the court that a child is an unruly child, the division of juvenile services; or The date that is sixty days after: (1) The date of a hearing under section 27-20-17 which results in retaining a b

(2) The date of an order in a dispositional hearing under which a child is placed (3) The date a child is placed in foster care voluntarily and with the consent of child in shelter care; in foster care; or the child's parent

For purposes of subsection 2, a child leaves foster care when: a

The court enters an order: (1) Denying a petition to grant care, custody, and control of the child to the county social service board or the division of juvenile services; (2) Terminating an order that granted custody of the child to the department, the county social service board, or the division of juvenile services; or (3) Appointing a legal guardian under section 27-20-48.1; The court order under which the child entered foster care ends by operation of law; b

Page No. 13 6

The child is placed in a parental home by the court or a legal custodian other than the division of juvenile services and the legal custodian lacks authority to remove the child without further order of the court; or The child is placed in a parental home by the division of juvenile services

For purposes of subsection 2, a child is not in foster care on any night during which the child is: a. On a trial home visit; b. Receiving services at the youth correctional center pursuant to an adjudication of delinquency; or Absent without leave from the place in which the child was receiving foster care

For purposes of this section: a

"A finding that the child has been subjected to child abuse or neglect" means: (1) A finding of deprivation made under chapter 27-20; or (2) A conviction of a person, responsible for a child's welfare, for conduct involving the child, under chapter 12.1-16 or sections 12.1-17-01 through 12.1-17-04 or 12.1-20-01 through 12.1-20-08

"Compelling reason" means a recorded statement that reflects consideration of: (1) The child's age; (2) The portion of the child's life spent living in the household of a parent of the child; (3) The availability of an adoptive home suitable to the child's needs; (4) Whether the child has special needs; and (5) The expressed wishes of a child age ten or older

"Department" means the department of human services or its designee, including any county social service board

Petition to terminate parental rights - When brought - Definitions. (Effective after b

December 31, 2019) A petition to terminate parental rights may be made as provided under this section and section 27-20-45

Except as provided in subsection 3, a petition for termination of parental rights must be filed: a

If the child has been in foster care, in the custody of the department, human service zone, or county social service board, or, in cases arising out of an adjudication by the court that a child is an unruly child, the division of juvenile services, for at least four hundred fifty out of the previous six hundred sixty nights; b. Within sixty days after a court of competent jurisdiction has found the child to be an abandoned infant; or c. Within sixty days after a court of competent jurisdiction has convicted the child's parent of one of the following crimes, or of an offense under the laws of another jurisdiction which requires proof of substantially similar elements: (1) A violation of section 12.1-16-01, 12.1-16-02, or 12.1-16-03, or subsection 1 of section 14-09-22 in which the victim is another child of the parent; (2) Aiding, abetting, attempting, conspiring, or soliciting a violation of section 12.1-16-01, 12.1-16-02, or 12.1-16-03 in which the victim is a child of the parent; or (3) A violation of section 12.1-17-02 in which the victim is a child of the parent and has suffered serious bodily injury

A petition for termination of parental rights need not be filed if: a

The child is being cared for by a relative approved by the department and human service zone; The department, human service zone, or county social service board has documented in the case plan a compelling reason for determining that filing such a petition would not be in the child's best interests and has notified the court that the documentation is available for review by the court; or The department or county social service board before January 1, 2021, or the human service zone has determined: b

Page No. 14 4

(1) Reasonable efforts to preserve and reunify the family are required under section 27-20-32.2 to be made with respect to the child; (2) The case plan provides such services are necessary for the safe return of (3) Such services have not been provided consistent with time periods the child to the child's home; and described in the case plan

For purposes of subsection 2, a child in foster care entered foster care on the earlier of: a

The date of the court's order if the court: (1) Made a finding that the child has been subjected to child abuse or neglect; (2) Determined that it is unsafe or contrary to the welfare of the child to remain in the home; and (3) Granted custody of the child to the department, human service zone, or county social service board or, in cases arising out of an adjudication by the court that a child is an unruly child, the division of juvenile services; or The date that is sixty days after: (1) The date of a hearing under section 27-20-17 which results in retaining a b

For purposes of subsection 2, a child leaves foster care when: a

The court enters an order: (1) Denying a petition to grant care, custody, and control of the child to the human service zone or the division of juvenile services; (2) Terminating an order that granted custody of the child to the human service zone or the division of juvenile services; or b

(3) Appointing a legal guardian under section 27-20-48.1; The court order under which the child entered foster care ends by operation of law; The child is placed in a parental home by the court or a legal custodian other than the division of juvenile services and the legal custodian lacks authority to remove the child without further order of the court; or The child is placed in a parental home by the division of juvenile services

"Compelling reason" means a recorded statement that reflects consideration of: (1) The child's age; (2) The portion of the child's life spent living in the household of a parent of the (3) The availability of an adoptive home suitable to the child's needs; (4) Whether the child has special needs; and (5) The expressed wishes of a child age ten or older

"Department" means the department of human services or its designee, including any county social service board

child; b

For purposes of this section: a

Page No. 15 d

"Human service zone" means a county or consolidated group of counties administering human services within a designated area in accordance with an agreement or plan approved by the department

27-20-21. Contents of petition

Superseded by N.D.R.Juv.P., Rule 3

27-20-22. Summons

Superseded by N.D.R.Juv.P., Rules 2, 5, and 10

27-20-23. Service of summons

Superseded by N.D.R.Juv.P., Rule 6

27-20-24. Conduct of hearings

1. Hearings under this chapter must be conducted by the court without a jury, in an informal but orderly manner, and separately from other proceedings not included in section 27-20-03

If the hearing has not been held within the time limit, or any extension thereof, required by supreme court rule, the petition must be dismissed

The state's attorney upon request of the court shall present the evidence in support of any allegations of the petition not admitted and otherwise conduct the proceedings on behalf of the state

Except for informal adjustments under section 27-20-10, the proceedings must be recorded by stenographic notes or by electronic, mechanical, or other appropriate means

5. Hearings are open to the public if the purpose of the hearing is to declare a person in contempt of court. The general public must be excluded from other hearings under this chapter. In hearings from which the general public is excluded, only the parties, their counsel, witnesses, victims, and any other persons the court finds have a proper interest in the proceedings may be admitted by the court. The court may temporarily exclude the child or other person from the hearing if, after being warned by the court that disruptive conduct will cause removal from the courtroom, the child or other person persists in conduct that justifies removal from the courtroom

27-20-25. Service by publication - Interlocutory order of disposition

Superseded by N.D.R.Juv.P., Rule 8

27-20-26. Right to counsel - Exceptions

Except as otherwise provided in this section, a party who is indigent and unable to employ legal counsel is entitled to counsel at public expense at proceedings commenced under section 27-20-30.1, and at custodial, post-petition, and informal adjustment stages of proceedings under this chapter. During the informal adjustment stage of a proceeding or in a proceeding commenced under section 27-20-30.1 only the child, if determined to be indigent, is entitled to counsel at public expense. In proceedings regarding allegations of unruliness or delinquency, a child's parent, legal guardian, or custodian, if determined to be indigent, is entitled to counsel at public expense only during the dispositional stage of the proceedings. If a party appears without counsel the court shall ascertain whether the party knows the party may be represented by counsel and that the party is entitled to counsel at public expense if indigent. The court may continue the proceeding to enable a party to obtain counsel and, subject to this section, counsel must be provided for an unrepresented indigent party upon the party's request. Counsel must be provided for a child who is under the age of eighteen years and is not represented by the child's parent, guardian, or custodian at custodial, post-petition, and informal adjustment stages of proceedings Page No. 16 2

under this chapter. If the interests of two or more parties conflict, separate counsel must be provided for each of them

An indigent party is one who at the time of requesting counsel is unable, without undue financial hardship, to provide for full payment of legal counsel and all other necessary expenses for representation. A child who, at the time of the proceeding, is under the age of eighteen years is not to be considered indigent under this section if the child's parent can, without undue financial hardship, provide full payment for legal counsel and other expenses of representation. Any parent of a child who is under the age of eighteen and is involved in a proceeding under this chapter is, unless undue financial hardship would ensue, responsible for providing legal counsel and for paying other necessary expenses of representation for the parent's child. The court may enforce performance of this duty by appropriate order

For purposes of this section and section 27-20-49, "party" means the child and the child's parent, legal guardian, or custodian, and includes "child" as defined in subsection 1 of section 27-20-30.1

27-20-27. Other basic rights

A party is entitled to the opportunity to introduce evidence and otherwise be heard in the party's own behalf and to cross-examine adverse witnesses

A child charged with a delinquent act need not be a witness against or otherwise incriminate oneself. An extrajudicial statement, if obtained in the course of violation of this chapter or which would be constitutionally inadmissible in a criminal proceeding, may not be used against a child. Evidence illegally seized or obtained may not be received over objection to establish the allegations made against a child. A confession validly made by a child out of court is insufficient to support an adjudication of delinquency unless it is corroborated in whole or in part by other evidence

27-20-27.1. Orders directed to parents or guardians

It is the policy of this state that every parent or guardian has an obligation to participate in any treatment of the parent's or guardian's child as ordered by the juvenile court. The juvenile court may hold any parent or guardian who willfully fails to participate in the treatment in contempt of court

27-20-28. Investigation and report

If the allegations of a petition are admitted by a party or notice of a hearing under section 27-20-34 has been given, the court, prior to the hearing on need for treatment or rehabilitation and disposition, may direct that a social study and report in writing to the court be made by the director or other person designated by the court, concerning the child, the child's family and environment, and other matters relevant to disposition of the case. If the allegations of the petition are not admitted and notice of a hearing under section 27-20-34 has not been given, the court may not direct the making of the study and report until after the court has heard the petition upon notice of hearing given pursuant to this chapter and the court has found that the child committed a delinquent act or is an unruly or deprived child

2. During the pendency of any proceeding the court: a. May order the child to be examined at a suitable place by a physician, psychologist, or certified addiction counselor; b. May order the child tested by appropriate forensic methods to determine whether the child has been exposed to a controlled substance or other substance considered injurious to the child's health; or c. May order medical or surgical treatment of a child who is suffering from a serious physical condition or illness, or alcohol or drug abuse, which in the opinion of a licensed physician requires prompt treatment, even if the parent, guardian, or other custodian has not been given notice of a hearing, is not available, or without good cause informs the court of that person's refusal to consent to the treatment

Page No. 17 27-20-29. Hearing - Findings - Dismissal

After hearing the evidence on the petition, the court shall make and file its findings as to whether the child is a deprived child, or if the petition alleges that the child is delinquent or unruly, whether the acts ascribed to the child were committed by the child. If the court finds that the child is not a deprived child or that the allegations of delinquency or unruly conduct have not been established, it shall dismiss the petition and order the child discharged from any detention or other restriction previously ordered in the proceeding

If the court finds on proof beyond a reasonable doubt that the child committed the acts by reason of which the child is alleged to be delinquent or unruly, it shall proceed immediately or at a postponed hearing to hear evidence as to whether the child is in need of treatment or rehabilitation and to make and file its findings thereon. In the absence of evidence to the contrary, evidence of the commission of acts which constitute a felony is sufficient to sustain a finding that the child is in need of treatment or rehabilitation. If the court finds that the child is not in need of treatment or rehabilitation, it shall dismiss the proceeding and discharge the child from any detention or other restriction previously ordered

If the court finds from clear and convincing evidence that the child is deprived or that the child is in need of treatment or rehabilitation as a delinquent or unruly child, the court shall proceed immediately or at a postponed hearing to make a proper disposition of the case

In hearings under subsections 2 and 3, all evidence helpful in determining the questions presented, including oral and written reports, may be received by the court and relied upon to the extent of its probative value even though not otherwise competent in the hearing on the petition. The parties or their counsel must be afforded an opportunity to examine and controvert written reports so received and to cross-examine individuals making the reports. Sources of confidential information need not be disclosed

5. On its motion or that of a party, the court may continue the hearings under this section for a reasonable period to receive reports and other evidence bearing on the disposition or the need for treatment or rehabilitation. In this event the court shall make an appropriate order for detention of the child or the child's release from detention subject to supervision of the court during the period of the continuance. In scheduling investigations and hearings the court shall give priority to proceedings in which a child is in detention or has otherwise been removed from the child's home before an order of disposition has been made

27-20-30. Disposition of deprived child. (Effective through December 31, 2019) 1

If the child is found to be a deprived child, the court may make any of the following orders of disposition best suited to the protection and physical, mental, and moral welfare of the child: a

Permit the child to reside with the child's parents, guardian, or other custodian, subject to conditions and limitations as the court prescribes, including supervision as directed by the court for the protection of the child

Subject to conditions and limitations as the court prescribes, transfer temporary legal custody to any of the following: (1) An agency or other private organization licensed or otherwise authorized by b

law to receive and provide care for the child

(2) The director of the county social service board or other public agency authorized by law to receive and provide care for the child

c. Require the parents, guardian, or other custodian to participate in treatment

Appoint a fit and willing relative or other appropriate individual as the child's legal guardian

In cases in which a compelling reason has been shown that it would not be in the child's best interests to return home, to have parental rights terminated, to be placed for adoption, to be placed with a fit and willing relative, or to be placed with e

Page No. 18 a legal guardian, establish, by order, some other planned permanent living arrangement

f. Without a compelling reason to the contrary, a court order that transfers the child from the current protective placement to a parent or other biological family must provide a reasonable period of time to facilitate a beneficial transition for the child and other parties involved

2. Unless a child found to be deprived is found also to be delinquent or unruly and not amenable to treatment, the child may not be committed to or confined in an institution or other facility designed or operated for the benefit of delinquent children

Disposition of deprived child. (Effective after December 31, 2019) 1

If the child is found to be a deprived child, the court may make any of the following orders of disposition best suited to the protection and physical, mental, and moral welfare of the child: a

law to receive and provide care for the child

(2) The director of the human service zone or other public agency authorized by law to receive and provide care for the child

c. Require the parents, guardian, or other custodian to participate in treatment

Appoint a fit and willing relative or other appropriate individual as the child's legal guardian

27-20-30.1. Disposition of child needing continued foster care services. (Effective through December 31, 2019) 1

For purposes of this section, "child" means an individual between the ages of eighteen and twenty-one years who is in need of continued foster care services

A petition to commence an action under this section must contain information as required by supreme court rule along with an affidavit either prepared by the administrative county, as determined by the department of human services, or prepared by an agency or tribal council of a recognized Indian reservation in North Dakota

The court shall issue a summons in accordance with section 27-20-22 upon the filing of a petition and affidavit

If a child is in need of continued foster care services as determined by the department of human services and as set forth in a continued foster care agreement, the court shall make the following judicial determination: a

Page No. 19 c

That the child's continued foster care agreement has been willfully entered between: (1) The department of human services or its agent, the child, and the foster care provider; or (2) An agency or tribal council of a recognized Indian reservation in North Dakota if the child is not subject to the jurisdiction of the state of North Dakota, the child, and the foster care provider; That it is in the best interest of the child to remain in or return to foster care; That reasonable efforts were made in accordance with subsection 7 of section 27-20-32.2; That the child has attained the age of eighteen or older but does not exceed the age of twenty-one years; That the child has satisfied the education, employment, or disability requirements under the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 [Pub. L. 110-351] and as set forth by the department of human services; That the administrative county, as determined by the department, or that an agency or tribal council of a recognized Indian reservation in North Dakota, shall continue foster care case management, unless otherwise agreed to or required by the department; That the administrative county or an agency or tribal council of a recognized Indian reservation in North Dakota must have care and placement responsibility of the child; That permanency hearing must be as set forth in section 27-20-36; and That there are no grounds to file a petition to terminate parental rights under chapter 27-20

Pursuant to N.D.R.Juv.P., Rule 16, a court may modify or vacate the judicial determination made under subsection 4

Disposition of child needing continued foster care services. (Effective after December 31, 2019) 1

For purposes of this section, "child" means an individual between the ages of eighteen and twenty-one years who is in need of continued foster care services

A petition to commence an action under this section must contain information as required by supreme court rule along with an affidavit either prepared by the administrative human service zone, as determined by the department of human services, or prepared by an agency or tribal council of a recognized Indian reservation in North Dakota

The court shall issue a summons in accordance with section 27-20-22 upon the filing of a petition and affidavit

If a child is in need of continued foster care services as determined by the human service zone and the department of human services and as set forth in a continued foster care agreement, the court shall make the following judicial determination: a

That the child is not deprived, delinquent, or unruly but is in need of continued foster care services; That the child will remain in or will return to foster care pursuant to the child's continued foster care agreement; That the child's continued foster care agreement has been willfully entered between: (1) The human service zone and the department of human services or its agent, the child, and the foster care provider; or (2) An agency or tribal council of a recognized Indian reservation in North Dakota if the child is not subject to the jurisdiction of the state of North Dakota, the child, and the foster care provider; That it is in the best interest of the child to remain in or return to foster care; That reasonable efforts were made in accordance with subsection 7 of section 27-20-32.2; b

Page No. 20 f

That the child has attained the age of eighteen or older but does not exceed the age of twenty-one years; That the child has satisfied the education, employment, or disability requirements under the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 [Pub. L. 110-351] and as set forth by the department of human services; That the administrative human service zone, as determined by the department, or that an agency or tribal council of a recognized Indian reservation in North Dakota, shall continue foster care case management, unless otherwise agreed to or required by the department; That the administrative human service zone or an agency or tribal council of a recognized Indian reservation in North Dakota must have care and placement responsibility of the child; That permanency hearing must be as set forth in section 27-20-36; and That there are no grounds to file a petition to terminate parental rights under chapter 27-20

Pursuant to rule 16 of the North Dakota Rules of Juvenile Procedure, a court may modify or vacate the judicial determination made under subsection 4

27-20-31. Disposition of delinquent child. (Effective through December 31, 2019) 1

If the child is found to be a delinquent child, the court shall make findings and include in the order of disposition any actions or steps necessary to ensure: a

The child receives the treatment or rehabilitation the court deems most appropriate; Accountability to the victim; and Safety of the community

If the child is found to be a delinquent child, the court may make any of the following orders of disposition best suited to the child's treatment, rehabilitation, and welfare: a

Any order authorized by section 27-20-30 for the disposition of a deprived child; Placing the child on probation under the supervision of the director, probation officer, or other appropriate officer of the court or the director of the county social service board under conditions and limitations the court prescribes; c. Ordering the child to pay a fine if the delinquent act committed by the child constitutes manslaughter resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle in violation of section 12.1-16-02; negligent homicide in violation of section 12.1-16-03; or driving or being in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 39-08-01, or an equivalent ordinance. The court may suspend the imposition of a fine imposed pursuant to this subsection upon such terms and conditions as the court may determine. Fines collected pursuant to this subsection must be paid into the county treasury for disposition pursuant to section 29-27-02.1; d. Committing the child to the division of juvenile services or to another state department to which commitment of delinquent or unruly children may be made. When necessary, the commitment order may provide that the child initially be placed in a secure facility; e. Ordering the child to make monetary restitution to the victim of the offense or to complete a specified number of hours of community service as determined by the court, or both; f. Ordering the periodic testing for the use of illicit drugs or alcohol pursuant to rules or policies adopted by the supreme court; or g. Ordering the child's participation in a juvenile drug court program

If the delinquent act committed by the child was a sexual offense, the court shall ensure the child is assessed in a timely manner, not to exceed thirty days, with age-appropriate social assessments to determine the appropriate level of required treatment

Disposition of delinquent child. (Effective after December 31, 2019) 2

Page No. 21 1

If the child is found to be a delinquent child, the court shall make findings and include in the order of disposition any actions or steps necessary to ensure: a

The child receives the treatment or rehabilitation the court deems most appropriate; Accountability to the victim; and Safety of the community

If the child is found to be a delinquent child, the court may make any of the following orders of disposition best suited to the child's treatment, rehabilitation, and welfare: a

Any order authorized by section 27-20-30 for the disposition of a deprived child; Placing the child on probation under the supervision of the director, probation officer, or other appropriate officer of the court or the director of the human service zone under conditions and limitations the court prescribes; c. Ordering the child to pay a fine if the delinquent act committed by the child constitutes manslaughter resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle in violation of section 12.1-16-02; negligent homicide in violation of section 12.1-16-03; or driving or being in actual physical control of a vehicle in violation of section 39-08-01, or an equivalent ordinance. The court may suspend the imposition of a fine imposed pursuant to this subsection upon such terms and conditions as the court may determine. Fines collected pursuant to this subsection must be paid into the county treasury for disposition pursuant to section 29-27-02.1; d. Committing the child to the division of juvenile services or to another state department to which commitment of delinquent or unruly children may be made. When necessary, the commitment order may provide that the child initially be placed in a secure facility; e. Ordering the child to make monetary restitution to the victim of the offense or to complete a specified number of hours of community service as determined by the court, or both; f. Ordering the periodic testing for the use of illicit drugs or alcohol pursuant to rules or policies adopted by the supreme court; or g. Ordering the child's participation in a juvenile drug court program

27-20-31.1. Delinquent children - Suspension of driving privileges

If a juvenile is adjudicated delinquent of an offense that would be a class A misdemeanor or a felony if the offense were committed by an adult, the juvenile court may order the suspension of the juvenile's driving privileges for a period of up to six months for the first offense. For a second or subsequent offense, the juvenile court may order the suspension of the juvenile's driving privileges for up to one year. As a condition to the return of driving privileges, the juvenile court may order the successful completion of an appropriate driver's examination

2. When the juvenile court orders the suspension of a juvenile's driving privileges, the juvenile court shall immediately take possession of the juvenile's driver's license or permit and send copies of the court's order to the director of the department of transportation who shall make notation of the juvenile's suspension of driving privileges

The record of the juvenile's suspension of driving privileges under this section must be kept confidential and may not be released except to law enforcement personnel in connection with law enforcement activities. The record of a juvenile's suspension of driving privileges under this section may not be disclosed to or shared with the licensing officials of any other state or jurisdiction. At the end of the six-month or one-year period, the director shall remove and destroy all record of the juvenile's suspension of driving privileges under this section

Page No. 22 4

This section may not be construed to limit consensual agreements between the juvenile court and the juvenile restricting the driving privileges of the juvenile

27-20-31.2. Restitution

In addition to a child being ordered to make restitution under section 27-20-31, a parent of a child adjudged delinquent may be ordered to make restitution on the child's behalf in an amount not exceeding five thousand dollars

Prior to ordering parental restitution under this section, the court shall hold a hearing on the matter with notice given to all interested parties as to the nature and amount of the parental restitution. In determining whether to order parental restitution, the court must take the following factors into account: (1) The ability of the parent or parents to pay monetary restitution and the care and control exercised by the parents

(2) The ability of the child to pay monetary restitution

(3) Whether ordering parental restitution would detract from the child's treatment, rehabilitation, or welfare

(4) The number of delinquent acts, if any, previously committed by the child

A parental order of restitution must be limited to those damages directly related to the delinquent act and expenses actually incurred as a result of the delinquent act

2. Unless the court directs otherwise, any order of restitution under this section or section 27-20-31 may be filed, transcribed, and enforced by the person entitled to the restitution in the same manner as civil judgments rendered by the courts of this state may be enforced. A child against whose parents a judgment may be entered under this section is jointly and severally liable with that child's parents for the amounts up to five thousand dollars and solely liable for any amounts over that amount. Any judgment rendered under this section may not be discharged in bankruptcy and is not subject to the statutes of limitation provided for in chapter 28-01 and the judgment may not be canceled under section 28-20-35

27-20-32. Disposition of unruly child

If the child is found to be unruly, the court may make any disposition authorized for a delinquent child except commitment to a secure facility. If after making the disposition the court finds upon a further hearing that the child is not amenable to treatment or rehabilitation under the disposition made, it may make a disposition otherwise authorized by section 27-20-31

27-20-32.1. Court order required for removal of child

An order of disposition or other adjudication in a proceeding under this chapter, in those cases in which a child is removed from the home of a parent, custodian, or guardian for the reason that continuation in such home would be contrary to the welfare of such child, must specifically state that a continuation of the child in the home of the parent, custodian, or guardian would be contrary to the welfare of the child

27-20-32.2. Reasonable efforts to prevent removal or to reunify - When required

As used in this section, "reasonable efforts" means the exercise of due diligence, by the agency granted authority over the child under this chapter, to use appropriate and available services to meet the needs of the child and the child's family in order to prevent removal of the child from the child's family or, after removal, to use appropriate and available services to eliminate the need for removal, to reunite the child and the child's family, and to maintain family connections. In determining reasonable efforts to be made with respect to a child under this section, and in making reasonable efforts, the child's health and safety must be the paramount concern

Except as provided in subsection 4, reasonable efforts must be made to preserve families, reunify families, and maintain family connections: 2

Page No. 23 3

Prior to the placement of a child in foster care, to prevent or eliminate the need for removing the child from the child's home; To make it possible for a child to return safely to the child's home; b

c. Whether and, if applicable, to place siblings in the same foster care, relative, guardianship, or adoptive placement, unless it is determined that such a joint placement would be contrary to the safety or well-being of any of the siblings; and In the case of siblings removed from their home who are not jointly placed, to provide for frequent visitation or other ongoing interaction between the siblings, unless it is contrary to the safety or well-being of any of the siblings

If the court or the child's custodian determined that continuation of reasonable efforts, as described in subsection 2, is inconsistent with the permanency plan for the child, reasonable efforts must be made to place the child in a timely manner in accordance with the permanency plan and to complete whatever steps are necessary to finalize the permanent placement of the child

4. Reasonable efforts of the type described in subsection 2 are not required if: a

A court of competent jurisdiction has determined that a parent has subjected a child to aggravated circumstances; or The parental rights of the parent, with respect to another child of the parent, have been involuntarily terminated

Efforts to place a child for adoption, with a fit and willing relative or other appropriate individual as a legal guardian, or in another planned permanent living arrangement, may be made concurrently with reasonable efforts of the type described in subsection 2

6. Removal of a child from the child's home for placement in foster care must be based on judicial findings stated in the court's order, and determined on a case-by-case basis in a manner that complies with the requirements of titles IV-B and IV-E of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 620 et seq. and 42 U.S.C. 6701 et seq.], as amended, and federal regulations adopted thereunder, provided that this subsection may not provide a basis for overturning an otherwise valid court order

For the purpose of section 27-20-30.1, reasonable efforts were made under this section to meet the child's needs before a foster care placement for a child remaining in care for continued foster care purposes

27-20-32.3. Definitions - Active efforts - When required

When an agency is seeking to effect a foster care placement of, or termination of parental rights to an Indian child, the court shall require active efforts as set forth in 25 U.S.C. 1912(d)

27-20-32.4. Twenty-four seven sobriety program - Participation

If a child is subject to informal adjustment under section 27-20-10, is found to be delinquent under section 27-20-31, or is found to be unruly under section 27-20-32, the juvenile court shall require the child to participate in the twenty-four seven sobriety program under chapter 54-12 for a period of not less than thirty days: a

If the child is found to have violated section 39-08-01 or equivalent ordinance; or If a child is found to have an alcohol concentration of at least two one-hundredths of one percent by weight at the time of performance of a test within two hours after driving or being in physical control of a motor vehicle

If a child is subject to informal adjustment under section 27-20-10 and is required to participate in the twenty-four seven sobriety program, the period of participation may not exceed nine months

If a child required to participate in the twenty-four seven sobriety program under this section fails to comply with program requirements without being excused, the testing site shall notify the juvenile court and refer the child to the juvenile court for further disposition. The child may not be detained or otherwise taken into custody without authorization from the juvenile court

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If the juvenile court requires the child to participate in a juvenile drug court program, the juvenile court may waive the participation in the twenty-four seven sobriety program requirements of this section

27-20-33. Order of adjudication - Noncriminal

An order of disposition or other adjudication in a proceeding under this chapter is not a conviction of crime and does not impose any civil disability ordinarily resulting from a conviction or operate to disqualify the child in any civil service application or appointment. A child may not be committed or transferred to a penal institution or other facility used primarily for the execution of sentences of persons convicted of a crime

The disposition of a child and evidence adduced in a hearing in juvenile court may not be used against the child in any proceeding in any court other than a juvenile court, whether before or after reaching majority, except for impeachment or in dispositional proceedings after conviction of a felony for the purposes of a presentence investigation and report

27-20-34. Transfer to other courts

After a petition has been filed alleging delinquency based on conduct which is designated a crime or public offense under the laws, including local ordinances or resolutions of this state, the court before hearing the petition on its merits shall transfer the offense for prosecution to the appropriate court having jurisdiction of the offense if: a

The child is over sixteen or more years of age and requests the transfer; The child was fourteen years of age or more at the time of the alleged conduct and the court determines that there is probable cause to believe the child committed the alleged delinquent act and the delinquent act involves the offense of murder or attempted murder; gross sexual imposition or the attempted gross sexual imposition of a victim by force or by threat of imminent death, serious bodily injury, or kidnapping; or (1) The child was fourteen or more years of age at the time of the alleged c

conduct; (2) A hearing on whether the transfer should be made is held in conformity with sections 27-20-24, 27-20-26, and 27-20-27; (3) Notice in writing of the time, place, and purpose of the hearing is given to the child and the child's parents, guardian, or other custodian at least three days before the hearing; and (4) The court finds that there are reasonable grounds to believe that: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) The child committed the delinquent act alleged; The child is not amenable to treatment or rehabilitation as a juvenile through available programs; The child is not treatable in an institution for individuals who are intellectually disabled or who are mentally ill; The interests of the community require that the child be placed under legal restraint or discipline; and If the child is fourteen or fifteen years old, the child committed a delinquent act involving the infliction or threat of serious bodily harm

The burden of proving reasonable grounds to believe that a child is amenable to treatment or rehabilitation as a juvenile through available programs is on the child in those cases in which the alleged delinquent act involves the offense of manslaughter, aggravated assault, robbery, arson involving an inhabited structure, or escape involving the use of a firearm, destructive device, or other dangerous weapon or in cases in which the alleged delinquent act involves an offense which if committed by an adult would be a felony and the child has two or more previous delinquency adjudications for offenses which would be a felony if committed by an adult

In determining a child's amenability to treatment and rehabilitation, the court shall consider and make specific findings on the following factors: a

Age; Page No. 25 4

b. Mental capacity; c. Maturity; d. Degree of criminal sophistication exhibited; e

g. Whether the juvenile can be rehabilitated prior to expiration of juvenile court Previous record; Success or failure of previous attempts to rehabilitate; jurisdiction; Any psychological, probation, or institutional reports; The nature and circumstances of the acts for which the transfer is sought; The prospect for adequate protection of the public; and Any other relevant factors

Any transfer operates to terminate the juvenile court's jurisdiction over the child with respect to any future offense if the child is ultimately convicted of the offense giving rise to the transfer

5. No child subject to the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, either before or after reaching eighteen years of age, may be prosecuted for an offense previously committed unless the case has been transferred as provided in this section

Statements made by the child at the hearing under this section are not admissible against the child over objection in the criminal proceedings following the transfer except for impeachment

If the case is not transferred, the judge who conducted the hearing may not over objection of an interested party preside at the hearing on the petition. If the case is transferred to a court of which the judge who conducted the hearing is also a judge, the judge likewise is disqualified over objection from presiding in the prosecution

A person at least twenty years of age who committed an offense while a child and was not adjudicated for the offense in juvenile court may be prosecuted in district court as an adult, unless the state intentionally delayed the prosecution to avoid juvenile court jurisdiction. The district court has original and exclusive jurisdiction for the prosecution under this subsection

27-20-35. Disposition of mentally ill, mentally retarded, alcohol, or drug abusing child

Repealed by S.L. 2007, ch. 274, § 36

27-20-36. Limitations of time on orders of disposition

An order terminating parental rights or establishing a legal guardianship is without limit as to duration

An order of disposition committing a delinquent or unruly child to the division of juvenile services continues in force for not more than twelve months, excluding any period of time the child is on parole from an institution, or until the child is sooner discharged by an institution

The court which made the order may extend its duration for additional twelve-month periods subject to like discharge, if: (1) A hearing is held upon motion of the division, or on the court's own motion, prior to the expiration of the order; (2) Reasonable notice of the hearing and an opportunity to be heard are given to the child and the parent, guardian, or other custodian; and (3) The court finds that the extension is necessary for the treatment or rehabilitation of the child

A permanency hearing must be conducted within thirty days after a court determines that aggravated circumstances of the type described in subdivision a, c, d, or e of subsection 3 of section 27-20-02 exist, or within twelve months after a child, subject to an order of disposition under this subsection, is considered to have entered foster care, or is continued in foster care following a previous permanency hearing, including a hearing conducted on a petition filed under section 27-20-30.1. The permanency hearing may be conducted: Page No. 26 3

(1) By the division of juvenile services as a placement hearing under chapter 27-21; or (2) By the court, if the court requires, or if it appears that an appropriate permanency plan could not be carried out without exceeding the authority of the division of juvenile services

Except as provided in subsection 2, an order of disposition pursuant to which a child is placed in foster care may not continue in force for more than twelve months after the child is considered to have entered foster care. Before the extension of any court order limited under this subsection, a permanency hearing must be conducted. Any other order of disposition may not continue in force for more than twelve months

Except as provided in subsection 1, the court may terminate an order of disposition before the expiration of the order or extend its duration for further periods. An order of extension may be made if: a

A hearing is held before the expiration of the order upon motion of a party or on the court's own motion; b. Reasonable notice of the hearing and opportunity to be heard are given to the parties affected; The court finds the extension is necessary to accomplish the purposes of the order extended; and The extension does not exceed twelve months from the expiration of an order limited by subsection 3 or two years from the expiration of any other limited order

Except as provided in subsection 2, the court may terminate an order of disposition or extension prior to its expiration, on or without an application of a party, if it appears to the court that the purposes of the order have been accomplished. If a party may be adversely affected by the order of termination, the order may be made only after reasonable notice and opportunity to be heard have been given to the party

Except as provided in subsection 1, when the child attains the age of twenty years, all orders affecting the child then in force terminate and the child is discharged from further obligation or control

If an order of disposition is made with respect to a child under the age of ten years pursuant to which the child is placed in foster care without terminating parental rights and the parent and child relationship, the court, before extending the duration of the order, shall determine upon the extension hearing whether the child is adoptable and whether termination of those rights and that relationship is warranted under section 27-20-44 and is in the best interest of the child. In that case the notice of the extension hearing must also inform the parties affected that the court will determine whether the child is adoptable and whether termination of their parental rights and the parent and child relationship is warranted and in the best interest of the child and that a further order of disposition may be made by the court placing the child with a view to adoption. If the court determines that the child is adoptable and that termination of parental rights and the parent and child relationship is warranted and is in the best interest of the child, the court shall make a further order of disposition terminating those rights and that relationship and committing the child under section 27-20-47

27-20-37. Modification or vacation of orders

Superseded by N.D.R.Juv.P., Rule 16 and N.D.R.Crim.P., Rule 43

27-20-38. Rights and duties of legal custodian. (Effective through December 31, 2019) A custodian to whom legal custody has been given by the court under this chapter has: 1

The right to the physical custody of the child and the right to determine the nature of the care, placement, and treatment of the child, including ordinary medical care as well as medical or surgical treatment for a serious physical condition or illness which in the opinion of a licensed physician requires prompt treatment, except for any limits the court may impose

The right and duty to provide for the care, protection, training, and education and the physical, mental, and moral welfare of the child, subject to the conditions and 2

Page No. 27 b

limitations of the order and to the remaining rights and duties of the child's parents or guardian

A duty within thirty days after the removal of a child from the custody of the parent or parents of the child for the purpose of placement into foster care, to exercise due diligence to identify and provide notice to the following relatives: all parents of a sibling of the child entering foster care who have legal custody of the sibling, all adult grandparents, and any other adult suggested by the parents, subject to exceptions due to family or domestic violence, that: a

Specifies that the child has been or is being removed from the custody of the parent or parents of the child; Explains the options the relative has under federal, state, and local law to participate in the care and placement of the child, including any options that may be lost by failing to respond to the notice; c. Describes the requirements and standards to become a foster family home and the additional services and supports that are available for children placed in that home; and d. Describes how the relative of the child may enter into an agreement with the department and county social service board to receive a subsidized guardianship payment

For purposes of this section, "sibling of the child entering foster care" means: a

A brother or sister who has at least one biological or adoptive parent in common; A fictive brother or sister with a significant bond as identified by the child or parent; or A child that would have been considered a sibling but for the termination or other disruption of parental rights, including a death of a parent

Rights and duties of legal custodian. (Effective after December 31, 2019) A custodian to whom legal custody has been given by the court under this chapter has: 1

The right and duty to provide for the care, protection, training, and education and the physical, mental, and moral welfare of the child, subject to the conditions and limitations of the order and to the remaining rights and duties of the child's parents or guardian

Specifies that the child has been or is being removed from the custody of the parent or parents of the child; Explains the options the relative has under federal, state, and local law to participate in the care and placement of the child, including any options that may be lost by failing to respond to the notice; c. Describes the requirements and standards to become a foster family home and the additional services and supports that are available for children placed in that home; and d. Describes how the relative of the child may enter into an agreement with the department and human service zone to receive a subsidized guardianship payment

For purposes of this section, "sibling of the child entering foster care" means: a

A brother or sister who has at least one biological or adoptive parent in common; b

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A fictive brother or sister with a significant bond as identified by the child or parent; or A child that would have been considered a sibling but for the termination or other disruption of parental rights, including a death of a parent

27-20-39. Disposition of nonresident child