FL H1439

Each law enforcement agency in Broward County must implement a juvenile civil citation process under section 985.12, Florida Statutes.

Law enforcement officers shall issue civil citations to first-time juvenile misdemeanor offenders with no prior delinquency history who admit to the offense and agree to participate, with parental or guardian approval.

Officers may not arrest first-time misdemeanor offenders eligible for civil citations, but must arrest juveniles in domestic violence incidents and may arrest in exceptional circumstances involving public safety risks.

Provider agencies delivering civil citation services must report juvenile participation and performance progress to Broward County in the form and manner required by the county.

The act takes effect July 1, 2014.