DE HB117

Amends Title 10 of the Delaware Code to expand Family Court jurisdiction to include parents or legal guardians of minor children in delinquency actions.

Authorizes the Family Court to issue orders requiring parents/guardians to attend judicial proceedings, medical/psychological evaluations, and parenting classes involving the child.

Requires parents/guardians to cooperate with the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Families (DSCYF) and other entities implementing bail or sentencing conditions.

Allows the Family Court to impose civil or criminal contempt findings against parents/guardians who fail to comply with court orders.

Permits parents/guardians to assert as an affirmative defense that they made substantial and reasonable efforts to comply with court orders but were unable to cause the child to comply.