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Although Kentucky Juvenile cases are confidential, there are some people who are allowed in the courtroom.

People in the Courtroom

Judge

The judge is the person who makes decisions about cases, hears motions made by attorneys, and sets the rules for the defendant. Judges listen to all the facts and decide if there is enough evidence for the defendant to be found guilty.

Defendant

The defendant is the person who is charged with a crime.

Prosecutor

​The prosecutor works for the state and county.  Prosecutors represent the interests of the state and the community. Although prosecutors help the victims of crimes, they are not hired by the victims.

Defense Attorney

​​A defense attorney could be someone hired by the defendant or it could be a Public Defender. Defense attorney's represent the interests of the defendant.

Court Designated Worker (CDW)

The Court Designated Worker is the first contact a juvenile has with the court.  Court Designated Workers offer a diversion program for juveniles who qualify.

 

Victims

The victim of a crime has a right to be present in the courtroom as long as that person is not disruptive.

 

Department of Juvenile Justice Worker (DJJ)

A DJJ worker may be in the courtroom to help the judge decide on the best options for placement of a juvenile defendant.  DJJ workers can also create a PDI as requested by the judge.

Bailiff / Sheriff's Deputy

A bailiff is the uniformed officer who stays in the court and keeps the peace.

 

Cabinet for Health & Family Services

The Cabinet for Health and Family Services find placements for juveniles who cannot remain at home, but are not being placed by DJJ. 

 

Witnesses

Witnesses can be brought in to the court by the defense attorney or the prosecutor. They tell the court the information they have about the case.

 

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