Juvenile Court Services

COVID-19 Response

Out of concern for the health of our youth, families, staff, and the community due to COVID-19, Juvenile Court has cancelled or modified the following programs:

• Detention Visitation- In-person and virtual option available

• Coordination of Services Classes-Occurring Virtually

• Boys Group-Cancelled

• Diversion Boards-Virtually or telephonically

• Court led community service is operating in-person

• CASA Training-Occurring virtually

The entire Juvenile Services building is adhering to social distancing guidelines. Masks are required in the building. 

Offender Matters:

The court is now holding in-person hearings. This includes pleas and dispositions, revocation hearings, and arraignments.

Pre-trials and trials continue to be set by agreed order without in-person hearings.

For offender matters, respondent and their attorney are the only parties expected to be in court in person. If choosing to appear in person, please respect social distancing guidelines and masks are  required.

Civil Matters:

Truancy matters are anticipated to be held virtually.

At-Risk Youth and CHINS hearings are being held virtually Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

All Dependency hearings will be held via Zoom.

If choosing to appear in person, please respect social distancing guidelines and masks are required.

We are making every effort to ensure healthy conditions for youth in our detention facility. To do this, we are following set protocols determined by our Medical Provider in conjunction with guidelines from the Spokane County Health Officer and the CDC.

Medical staff assess each youth for signs of illness through a physical assessment and temperature checks. If a youth shows symptoms of COVID-19, he/she would be placed in medical isolation, provided emotional support and necessary medical care by our providers, to include testing. Personal protective equipment and infection control measures such as increased disinfection will be used to minimize the risk of virus transmission.

The Medical Director will be the point of contact for all youth health care needs and will consult with the Spokane Regional Health District for guidance.

Cleaning and disinfecting is being done throughout the juvenile court building, including the detention center.

Educational programming is now conducted in person following all safety protocols.

We want you to know that Spokane County Juvenile Court continues to ensure the youth and families we work with have the support they need at all times and especially during this uncertainty.

We have staff working remotely and in the building continuing our mission of promoting public safety, accountability, and positive change.

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