District Attorney-Juvenile Division

- 515 W Moreland Blvd # G72, Waukesha, WI 53188

When a young person in Waukesha, Wisconsin, becomes involved with the legal system, it can be an intimidating and confusing experience for everyone involved. The District Attorney-Juvenile Division plays a critical and distinct role in this process. Unlike a defense attorney who represents an individual, the District Attorney’s office represents the people of the State of Wisconsin. Their primary function is to prosecute juvenile matters that fall under the category of delinquent acts or cases where a juvenile is in need of protection or services. This division works within the juvenile court system, which operates with different goals and procedures than the adult criminal courts.

The juvenile justice system in Wisconsin is focused not just on punishment, but also on rehabilitation, and ensuring the safety and well-being of the youth and the community. The District Attorney-Juvenile Division is a key player in this system, working to balance these objectives. Their work can involve handling cases of juvenile delinquency, which are actions that would be considered crimes if committed by an adult. They also may be involved in cases where a juvenile is in need of protection or services (JIPS) or where a child is in need of protection or services (CHIPS).

It's important for residents of Waukesha County to understand the role of this government office. While they are a prosecuting body, their mission is to promote public safety through a just and fair process, which includes advocating for justice for victims and safeguarding the rule of law. They are a core part of the legal framework that addresses legal issues involving minors in our community.

The District Attorney-Juvenile Division is located at 515 W Moreland Blvd # G72 in Waukesha, WI 53188, USA. This address is situated within the larger Waukesha County government complex, making it a central and identifiable location for those who need to access government and legal services. Being in the heart of Waukesha makes the office a key part of the local community.

Accessibility is a vital consideration for any government building that serves the public. The facility where the District Attorney-Juvenile Division is located is well-equipped to accommodate all visitors. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance, a wheelchair accessible parking lot, and a wheelchair accessible restroom. These amenities ensure that individuals with mobility challenges can navigate the building and access the services they need comfortably and without difficulty. This focus on accessibility reflects a commitment to serving all members of the community fairly.

The office operates on a system where appointments are recommended. While this is a government office, scheduling an appointment is a good practice to ensure that you can be seen in a timely manner and that the appropriate staff members are available to assist with your specific inquiry. This helps to manage the flow of visitors and ensures that each case or question receives the proper attention.

As a governmental legal body, the District Attorney-Juvenile Division focuses on a very specific set of legal functions within the Waukesha County court system. Their services are centered on the prosecution and legal oversight of juvenile matters.

• Juvenile Delinquency Matters: The core function of this division is to handle cases where a minor (typically under the age of 17 in Wisconsin) is alleged to have committed an act that would be considered a crime if they were an adult. This includes everything from petty offenses to more serious charges. The Division is responsible for reviewing these cases and deciding whether to file a petition to prosecute the juvenile in court.

• Prosecution of Juvenile Offenses: Once a case moves forward, the District Attorney’s office prosecutes the delinquent acts. This involves presenting evidence, working with law enforcement, and representing the state's interests in hearings and trials within the juvenile court system. They work toward outcomes that are not only just but also consider the rehabilitative needs of the juvenile.

• Children in Need of Protection or Services (CHIPS) Cases: The office may also become involved in cases where a child is alleged to be in need of protection or services. These are civil, not criminal, matters but involve the state's intervention to protect a child from neglect, abuse, or other harmful situations. The District Attorney may act to ensure the safety and welfare of the child.

• Juveniles in Need of Protection or Services (JIPS) Cases: Similar to CHIPS, JIPS cases involve older minors who are deemed in need of services due to factors like truancy or being out of control. The District Attorney’s office works within this system to find solutions that address the underlying issues and protect the juvenile and the community.

The role of the District Attorney-Juvenile Division is distinct from that of a private attorney. As a government office, their features are defined by their public service mission and their position within the legal system.

• Governmental and Public Service Role: The division is a public office, meaning its purpose is to serve the interests of the community and the state as a whole, rather than an individual client. Their work is a core part of the justice system designed to protect the community and its youth.

• Specialization in Juvenile Law: By focusing specifically on juvenile matters, the division has a deep and practical understanding of the unique laws, procedures, and considerations of the juvenile court system. This specialization ensures that cases involving minors are handled with an understanding of the specific statutes and goals of this area of law.

• Community Accessibility: Being located in a central Waukesha County government building with full wheelchair accessibility demonstrates a commitment to serving all members of the public. This makes the office an open and accessible resource for anyone who needs to interact with the juvenile legal system.

• Restroom Availability: The provision of a restroom within the office building is a simple yet important amenity that adds to the convenience and comfort of visitors who may be spending time there for appointments or other business.

If you need to contact the District Attorney-Juvenile Division for official business, you can use the following information.

Address: 515 W Moreland Blvd # G72, Waukesha, WI 53188, USA

Phone: (262) 548-7905

It is important to remember that this office represents the state's interests in juvenile cases. If you or a family member are a respondent in a juvenile matter, it is highly recommended that you seek independent legal counsel from a private attorney who can represent your individual rights and best interests.

For residents of Waukesha County, it is worth knowing about the District Attorney-Juvenile Division as a key component of the local legal and governmental landscape. While it is not a law firm in the traditional sense, its role is absolutely essential to how juvenile matters are handled in our community. What makes this office noteworthy is its specialized function within the legal system, ensuring that matters involving minors are addressed through a specific set of laws and procedures designed for their unique circumstances.

The fact that this division is a government office means it is a public resource. For victims or witnesses of juvenile acts, this office is the place that will handle the prosecution of the case. For those navigating the system from the other side, understanding the function of the District Attorney is the first step in seeking appropriate legal defense. The presence of such a dedicated division shows that the Waukesha County legal system is committed to addressing the distinct challenges of juvenile law. It is a fundamental part of the community's infrastructure for justice, public safety, and the protection of its youngest residents.

District Attorney-Juvenile Division

515 W Moreland Blvd # G72, Waukesha, WI 53188, USA