CHINS
Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be given an attorney if I have to go to CHINS court?
Yes, the juvenile will have access to the defense attorney of the day for representation once arriving at CHINS court.
 

Can a parent/guardian make a CHINS complaint?
Yes, a parent is able to complete a CHINS complaint and submit it to the Cherokee County Juvenile Clerk’s Office. Here is a link for the CHINS complaint.
 

What happens once a complaint is filed?
Once a complaint is filed, the CHINS Coordinator is notified and begins a screening process to determine if the juvenile is appropriate for the CHINS program.
 

What happens after a juvenile agrees to participate in the CHINS diversion program? The coordinator completes an initial intake assessment and risk assessment with the juvenile and parent/guardian. A treatment plan is developed at the time of intake and services will be referred for the juvenile. The coordinator will reassess the needs of the juvenile throughout the CHINS diversion program.
 

How long does the CHINS diversion program last?
The CHINS program typically lasts anywhere from 3-9 months depending on the improvement of the juvenile’s behavior.

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What happens if the juvenile is not compliant with the CHINS diversion program? The coordinator can re-assess to determine if the CHINS program can provide any additional services that may benefit the juvenile. If coordinator determines the juvenile is not appropriate for CHINS at that time, the CHINS agreement can be dismissed as unsuccessful. A youth can then be adjudicated on the charge initially filed and further action could be taken.
 

Who supervises the juvenile if they are dismissed from the CHINS diversion program unsuccessful? The juvenile could be placed on an informal adjustment or juvenile probation. They would then be supervised by the Cherokee County Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). This could include paying fines/fees, community service, classes recommended by DJJ, etc.