In Utah’s juvenile courts, most hearings are closed to the public to protect the juvenile’s identity. Juveniles also do not have a right to request a jury trial, nor can they post bail in order to leave detention.
A juvenile does have certain constitutionally protected rights in juvenile court, including:
- The right to hire an attorney
- The right to appear in court to defend themselves
- The right against self incrimination
- The right to know the state’s accusations against the juvenile
- The right to have witnesses for your defense
- The right to a speedy trial and time to prepare a defense
- The right to an appeal