NRS: CHAPTER 62D - PROCEDURE IN JUVENILE PROCEEDINGS

[Rev. 6/29/2024 2:51:10 PM--2023]

CHAPTER 62D - PROCEDURE IN JUVENILE PROCEEDINGS

RIGHTS OF CHILDREN

NRS 62D.010 Manner for conducting proceedings; proceeding open to public; exception.

NRS 62D.020 Prosecution for same offense in another proceeding prohibited.

NRS 62D.030 Advisement of right to representation by attorney; order of appointment and referral of selection of attorney; waiver of right to representation; parent or guardian not responsible for payment of appointed attorney; compensation of appointed attorney.

NRS 62D.035 Attorney authorized to consult with and seek appointment of certain professionals.

NRS 62D.040 Procedure at first appearance at intake and before juvenile court; when adjudicating hearing is required; standards of proof; actions of court after determination of whether or not allegations have been established.

RIGHTS OF PARENTS AND GUARDIANS

NRS 62D.100 Right to representation by attorney; appointment of attorney under certain circumstances; compensation.

NRS 62D.110 Juvenile court to provide certificate of attendance to parent or guardian; contents.

NRS 62D.120 Juvenile court to provide to parents and guardians notice of juvenile proceedings to be held after detention hearing; contents of notice.

NRS 62D.130 Terminating or threatening to terminate employment of parent or guardian for appearance at proceeding prohibited; penalty; civil remedy.

DETERMINING COMPETENCE OF CHILD

NRS 62D.140 “Incompetent” defined.

NRS 62D.145 Suspension of case to determine competence of child.

NRS 62D.150 Duties of person making motion for evaluation of child.

NRS 62D.155 Appointment of one or more experts to evaluate and report on competence of child; qualification and duties of expert.

NRS 62D.160 Evaluation of child by expert: Required considerations.

NRS 62D.165 Written report of expert: Contents.

NRS 62D.170 Expedited hearing to determine competence of child.

NRS 62D.175 Juvenile court to consider certain information only for certain purposes; exception; statements made by child during evaluation not admissible as evidence in certain circumstances.

NRS 62D.180 Determination of competence of child by juvenile court; additional determinations if child determined to be incompetent; issuance of necessary recommendations and orders.

NRS 62D.185 Periodic review by juvenile court of child determined to be incompetent.

NRS 62D.190 Child determined to be incompetent may not be adjudicated delinquent or in need of supervision, placed under supervision of juvenile court or committed to custody of correctional facility during period that child remains incompetent; sealing of records.

PROCEEDINGS INVOLVING INDIAN CHILDREN

NRS 62D.200 Full faith and credit given to proceedings of Indian tribe. [Repealed.]

NRS 62D.210 Procedure when proceedings involve placement into foster care; appointment of attorney.

TIMING

NRS 62D.300 Power of juvenile court to expedite proceeding involving act committed against or witnessed by person less than 16 years of age.

NRS 62D.310 Period for final disposition of cases.

NRS 62D.320 Continuances.

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

NRS 62D.400 Electronic filing of certain documents.

NRS 62D.403 Issuance of order to join governmental entity or person as party to proceeding to enforce legal obligation to child.

NRS 62D.405 Interpreters.

NRS 62D.410 Subpoenas.

NRS 62D.415 Use of instrument of restraint on child during proceeding.

NRS 62D.420 Admissible evidence; examination and cross-examination; court access to and use of records relating to custody of child or involvement of child with agency which provides child welfare services.

NRS 62D.430 Fees allowed for witnesses and other persons acting under order of juvenile court; limitations.

NRS 62D.440 Disclosure to victim of disposition of case; confidentiality of personal information pertaining to victim or parent or guardian of victim.

APPEALS

NRS 62D.500 Appeals.

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RIGHTS OF CHILDREN

NRS 62D.010 Manner for conducting proceedings; proceeding open to public; exception.

1. Each proceeding conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title:

(a) Is not criminal in nature.

(b) Must be heard separately from the trial of cases against adults.

(d) May be conducted in an informal manner.

(e) May be held at a facility for the detention of children or elsewhere at the discretion of the juvenile court.

(f) Does not require stenographic notes or any other transcript of the proceeding unless ordered by the juvenile court.

2. Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, each proceeding conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title must be open to the public. If the juvenile court determines that all or part of the proceeding must be closed to the public because the closure is in the best interests of the child or the public:

(a) The public must be excluded; and

(b) The juvenile court may order that only those persons who have a direct interest in the case may be admitted. The juvenile court may determine that a victim or any member of the victim’s family is a person who has a direct interest in the case and may be admitted.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1057)

NRS 62D.020 Prosecution for same offense in another proceeding prohibited.

1. If a child is prosecuted for an offense in a juvenile proceeding, the child may not be prosecuted again for the same offense in another juvenile proceeding or in a criminal proceeding as an adult.

2. For the purposes of this section:

(a) A child is prosecuted for an offense in a juvenile proceeding if:

(1) The district attorney files a petition against the child pursuant to the provisions of this title alleging that the child committed a delinquent act; and

(2) The juvenile court accepts the child’s admission of the facts alleged in the petition or, at an adjudicatory hearing to determine culpability, the juvenile court begins to take evidence on the facts alleged in the petition.

(b) An offense is the same offense if it is:

(1) The offense alleged in the petition; or

(2) An offense based upon the same conduct as that alleged in the petition.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1060)

1. If a child is alleged to be delinquent or in need of supervision, the juvenile court shall advise the child and the parent or guardian of the child that the child is entitled to be represented by an attorney at all stages of the proceedings.

2. If a parent or guardian of a child is indigent, the parent or guardian may request the appointment of an attorney to represent the child pursuant to the provisions in NRS 171.188.

3. Except as otherwise provided in this section, the juvenile court shall order the appointment of an attorney for a child and refer the selection of the attorney in the manner set forth in NRS 7.115 if the parent or guardian of the child does not retain an attorney for the child and is not likely to retain an attorney for the child.

4. A child may waive the right to be represented by an attorney if:

(a) A petition is not filed and the child is placed under informal supervision pursuant to NRS 62C.200; or

(b) A petition is filed and the record of the juvenile court shows that the waiver of the right to be represented by an attorney is made knowingly, intelligently, voluntarily and in accordance with any applicable standards established by the juvenile court.

5. Except as otherwise provided in NRS 424.085, if the juvenile court orders the appointment of an attorney to represent a child and refers the selection of the attorney in the manner set forth in NRS 7.115, the parent or guardian must not be required to pay the fees and expenses of the attorney.

6. Each attorney, other than a public defender, who is appointed under the provisions of this section is entitled to the same compensation and expenses from the county as is provided in NRS 7.125 and 7.135 for attorneys appointed to represent persons charged with criminal offenses.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1047; A 2013, 535; 2019, 1961; 2021, 2265)

NRS 62D.035 Attorney authorized to consult with and seek appointment of certain professionals. Subject to the provisions of subsection 6 of NRS 62D.030 and chapter 260 of NRS, a public defender or any other attorney who represents a child in proceedings pursuant to the provisions of this title may consult with and seek appointment of:

1. Any social worker licensed pursuant to chapter 641B of NRS;

2. Any qualified mental health professional, as defined in NRS 458A.057;

3. Any educator; and

4. Any other expert the attorney deems appropriate.

(Added to NRS by 2017, 936; A 2019, 1962)

1. At the child’s first appearance at intake and before the juvenile court, the child must be:

(a) Advised of his or her rights;

(b) Informed of the specific allegations in the petition; and

2. If the child denies the allegations in the petition, the juvenile court shall:

(a) Conduct an adjudicatory hearing concerning the allegations; and

(b) Record its findings on whether the allegations have been established.

3. If the child is alleged to be in need of supervision, the allegations in the petition must be established by a preponderance of the evidence based upon competent, material and relevant evidence.

4. If the child is alleged to have committed a delinquent act, the allegations in the petition must be established by proof beyond a reasonable doubt based upon competent, material and relevant evidence.

5. If the juvenile court finds that the allegations in the petition have not been established, the juvenile court shall dismiss the petition and order that the child be discharged from any facility for the detention of children or temporary care, unless otherwise ordered by the juvenile court.

6. If the juvenile court finds that the allegations in the petition have been established, the juvenile court shall make a proper disposition of the case.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1058)

RIGHTS OF PARENTS AND GUARDIANS

NRS 62D.100 Right to representation by attorney; appointment of attorney under certain circumstances; compensation.

1. A parent or guardian of a child who is alleged to be delinquent or in need of supervision may be represented by an attorney at all stages of the proceedings. The juvenile court may not appoint an attorney for a parent or guardian, unless the juvenile court:

(a) Finds that such an appointment is required in the interests of justice; and

(b) Specifies in the record the reasons for the appointment.

2. Each attorney who is appointed pursuant to subsection 1 is entitled to the same compensation and expenses from the county as is provided in NRS 7.125 and 7.135 for attorneys appointed to represent persons charged with criminal offenses.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1047; A 2021, 2266)

NRS 62D.110 Juvenile court to provide certificate of attendance to parent or guardian; contents.

1. If a parent or guardian of a child appears with or on behalf of the child at a detention hearing, the juvenile court shall provide to the parent or guardian a certificate of attendance which the parent or guardian may provide to the employer of the parent or guardian.

2. A certificate of attendance:

(a) Must set forth the date and time of appearance and the provisions of NRS 62D.130; and

(b) Must not set forth the name of the child or the offense alleged.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1060)

NRS 62D.120 Juvenile court to provide to parents and guardians notice of juvenile proceedings to be held after detention hearing; contents of notice.

1. For any proceeding after the initial detention hearing, the juvenile court shall cause written notice of the proceeding and a copy of the notice to be provided to all parents and guardians of the child which the parents and guardians may provide to their employers.

2. The written notice of the proceeding and the copy of the notice:

(a) Must set forth the date and time of the proceeding and the provisions of NRS 62D.130; and

(b) Must not set forth the name of the child or the offense alleged.

3. If the address or location of any parent or guardian of a child is not immediately known when the proceeding is scheduled, notice must be served pursuant to this section immediately upon discovery of the address and location of the parent or guardian.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1061)

NRS 62D.130 Terminating or threatening to terminate employment of parent or guardian for appearance at proceeding prohibited; penalty; civil remedy.

1. If a parent or guardian of a child gives the employer of the parent or guardian or an agent of the employer notice of an appearance with or on behalf of the child in any court, it is unlawful for the employer or the agent of the employer to:

(a) Terminate the employment of the parent or guardian, as a consequence of the parent’s or guardian’s appearance or prospective appearance in court; or

(b) Assert to the parent or guardian that the parent’s or guardian’s appearance or prospective appearance in court will result in the termination of the parent’s or guardian’s employment.

2. Any employer or agent of an employer who violates the provisions of subsection 1 is guilty of a misdemeanor.

3. A parent or guardian who is discharged from employment in violation of subsection 1 may commence a civil action against the employer of the parent or guardian and obtain:

(a) Wages and benefits lost as a result of the violation;

(b) An order of reinstatement without loss of position, seniority or benefits;

(d) Reasonable attorney’s fees fixed by the court.

4. For the purposes of this section, notice is given:

(a) In the case of a detention hearing, when the parent or guardian:

(1) Gives the employer or an agent of the employer oral notice in advance of the hearing; and

(2) Provides the employer with a certificate of attendance immediately upon return to employment.

(b) In the case of any hearing after the initial detention hearing, when the parent or guardian gives the employer or an agent of the employer, in advance of the hearing, the employer’s copy of the written notice of the hearing.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1061)

DETERMINING COMPETENCE OF CHILD

NRS 62D.140 “Incompetent” defined. As used in NRS 62D.140 to 62D.190, inclusive, unless the context otherwise requires, “incompetent” means a child does not have the present ability to:

1. Understand the nature of the allegations of delinquency or, if the child is a child in need of supervision, the allegations against the child;

2. Understand the nature and purpose of the court proceedings; or

3. Aid and assist the child’s counsel in the defense at any time during the proceedings with a reasonable degree of rational understanding.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2028)

NRS 62D.145 Suspension of case to determine competence of child.

1. Any time after a petition is filed and before the final disposition of a case, if doubt arises as to the competence of a child, the juvenile court shall suspend the case until the question of competence is determined.

2. During the period when the competence of a child is being determined, the juvenile court shall consider the appropriate placement of the child and any services or other care to be provided to the child that are necessary for the well-being of the child or for public safety, and may issue any necessary orders.

3. The period in which the juvenile court is required to make its final disposition of a case, as set forth in NRS 62D.310, is tolled during the period when the competence of a child is being determined.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2028)

NRS 62D.150 Duties of person making motion for evaluation of child. A person who makes a motion for the evaluation of a child for the purpose of determining whether the child is incompetent shall:

1. Certify that the motion is being made in good faith and is based on reasonable grounds to believe that the child is incompetent and cannot proceed in the case; and

2. Specify facts that support the motion, including, without limitation, any nonprivileged observations of or statements made by the child.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2029)

NRS 62D.155 Appointment of one or more experts to evaluate and report on competence of child; qualification and duties of expert.

1. If the juvenile court suspends a case pursuant to NRS 62D.145, the juvenile court shall appoint one or more experts, at least one of whom is a psychologist or psychiatrist, to evaluate the child and report on the competence of the child.

2. Before appointing an expert to evaluate and report on the competence of the child, the juvenile court shall consider the following factors to determine the ability and qualification of the expert to provide such an evaluation and report:

(a) The training and experience of the expert in child psychology, child and adolescent psychiatry or child forensic psychiatry;

(b) The licensure or professional certification of the expert; and

3. An expert appointed by the juvenile court to evaluate and report on the competence of a child must:

(a) Be deemed by the juvenile court to be able and qualified to evaluate and report on the competence of the child pursuant to subsection 2; and

(b) Prepare and provide a written report to the juvenile court and the parties not later than 14 days after the juvenile court enters an order appointing the expert, unless the juvenile court provides an extension for good cause shown.

4. The appointment of an expert pursuant to this section does not preclude the district attorney or the child from calling any other expert witness to testify concerning the competence of the child at an adjudicatory hearing, a hearing on a violation of juvenile probation or parole or a hearing to determine whether the child is incompetent. Any such expert witness must be allowed to evaluate the child and examine all relevant records and documents.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2029)

NRS 62D.160 Evaluation of child by expert: Required considerations.

1. An expert who is appointed by the juvenile court pursuant to NRS 62D.155 shall evaluate the child as specified in the court order appointing the expert.

2. An expert shall consider as part of his or her evaluation the child’s ability to:

(a) Appreciate the allegations against the child;

(b) Appreciate the range and nature of possible penalties that may be imposed upon the child, if applicable;

(d) Disclose to the child’s counsel facts pertinent to the case;

(e) Display appropriate courtroom behavior; and

(f) Testify regarding relevant issues.

3. An expert shall also consider as part of his or her evaluation, if appropriate, the following circumstances of a child:

(a) The age and developmental maturity of the child;

(b) Whether the child has a mental illness or disability or a developmental disorder;

(d) Any other factor that affects the competence of the child.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2029)

NRS 62D.165 Written report of expert: Contents.

1. A written report submitted by an expert pursuant to subsection 3 of NRS 62D.155 must:

(a) Identify the specific matters referred to the expert by the juvenile court for evaluation;

(b) Describe the procedures, techniques and tests used in the evaluation of the child and the purposes of each;

(d) State any clinical observations, findings and opinions of the expert on each issue referred to the expert for evaluation by the juvenile court and specifically indicate any issues on which the expert was unable to give an opinion;

(e) Identify the sources of information used by the expert and present the factual basis for any clinical observations, findings and opinions of the expert; and

(f) State any recommended counseling, treatment, education or therapy to assist the child with behavioral, emotional, psychological or psychiatric issues, if ordered by the juvenile court to provide such recommendations.

2. In addition to the requirements set forth in subsection 1, if an expert believes that a child is incompetent, the expert shall also include in the report:

(a) Any recommended treatment or education for the child to attain competence;

(b) The likelihood that the child will attain competence under the recommended treatment or education;

(d) The probability that the child will attain competence in the foreseeable future; and

(e) If the expert recommends treatment for the child to attain competence, a recommendation as to whether services can best be provided to the child as an outpatient or inpatient, or by commitment to an institution for persons with intellectual disabilities or mental illness pursuant to NRS 62E.160.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2030)

NRS 62D.170 Expedited hearing to determine competence of child.

1. Upon receipt of the required written reports from all experts appointed by the juvenile court, the juvenile court shall hold an expedited hearing to determine whether the child is incompetent.

2. The parties may waive the presence of witnesses and submit the issue of competence to the juvenile court on the written reports of the experts who evaluated the child.

3. The party who made the motion to determine whether the child is competent has the burden of proof to rebut the presumption of competence by a preponderance of the evidence.

4. Unless the parties stipulate or the juvenile court orders otherwise, the parties shall disclose all witnesses, reports and documents at least 10 days before the scheduled day of the hearing.

5. During the hearing, the parties may:

(a) Introduce other evidence, including, without limitation, evidence related to treatment, competence and the possibility of ordering the involuntary administration of medicine; and

(b) Cross-examine witnesses.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2030)

NRS 62D.175 Juvenile court to consider certain information only for certain purposes; exception; statements made by child during evaluation not admissible as evidence in certain circumstances.

1. Except as otherwise provided in this section, the juvenile court may consider any information that is relevant to the determination of the competence of the child and any information elicited from the child pursuant to NRS 62D.140 to 62D.190, inclusive, only for the purpose of:

(a) Determining whether the child is incompetent; and

(b) Making a disposition of the case in juvenile court.

2. The provisions of subsection 1 do not apply if a child whose competence is being determined presents any information to the juvenile court for a purpose other than those set forth in subsection 1.

3. Any statement made by a child during the course of an evaluation by an expert who is appointed by the juvenile court pursuant to NRS 62D.155, regardless of whether the child consented to the evaluation, is not admissible as evidence:

(a) On the issue of guilt in a delinquency proceeding, unless the child introduces the statement as evidence on the issue of guilt first; or

(b) In any criminal proceeding, unless the child introduces the statement as evidence first.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2031)

NRS 62D.180 Determination of competence of child by juvenile court; additional determinations if child determined to be incompetent; issuance of necessary recommendations and orders.

1. After the juvenile court considers the written reports of all the experts appointed by the juvenile court, any additional written reports, and testimony and other evidence presented at the hearing, the juvenile court shall determine whether the child is incompetent.

2. If the juvenile court determines that the child is competent, the juvenile court shall proceed with the case.

3. If the juvenile court determines that the child is incompetent, the juvenile court shall determine whether:

(a) The child is a danger to himself or herself or society;

(b) Providing services to the child will assist the child in attaining competence and further the policy goals set forth in NRS 62A.360; and

(c) Any services provided to the child can best be provided to the child as an outpatient or inpatient, by commitment to an institution for persons with intellectual disabilities or mental illness pursuant to NRS 62E.160, or as otherwise allowed by law.

4. After the juvenile court makes the determinations set forth in subsection 3, the juvenile court shall issue all necessary and appropriate recommendations and orders. The juvenile court may order a division facility to accept and provide services to the child consistent with the provisions of NRS 433B.320. As used in this subsection, “division facility” has the meaning ascribed to it in NRS 433B.070.

5. Any treatment ordered by the juvenile court must provide the level of care, guidance and control that will be conducive to the child’s welfare and the best interests of this State.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2031; A 2021, 2553)

NRS 62D.185 Periodic review by juvenile court of child determined to be incompetent.

1. If the juvenile court determines that a child is incompetent pursuant to NRS 62D.180, the juvenile court shall conduct a periodic review to determine whether the child has attained competence. Unless the juvenile court terminates its jurisdiction pursuant to paragraph (c) of subsection 3, such a periodic review must be conducted:

(a) Not later than 6 months after the date of commitment to an institution for persons with intellectual disabilities or mental illness pursuant to NRS 62E.160 or the date treatment ordered by the court commenced, whichever is earlier;

(b) After any period of extended treatment;

(d) After a person ordered by the juvenile court to provide services to the child pursuant to NRS 62D.180 determines that the child has attained competence or will never attain competence; or

(e) At shorter intervals as ordered by the juvenile court.

2. Before a periodic review is conducted pursuant to subsection 1, any person ordered by the juvenile court to provide services to a child pursuant to NRS 62D.180 must provide a written report to the juvenile court, the parties, and the department of juvenile services or Youth Parole Bureau, as applicable.

3. After a periodic review is conducted pursuant to subsection 1, if the juvenile court determines that the child:

(a) Is competent, the juvenile court shall enter an order accordingly and proceed with the case.

(b) Has not attained competence, the juvenile court shall order appropriate treatment, including, without limitation, residential or nonresidential placement in accordance with NRS 62D.140 to 62D.190, inclusive, commitment to an institution for persons with intellectual disabilities or mental illness pursuant to NRS 62E.160, or as otherwise allowed by law.

(c) Has not attained competence and will be unable to attain competence in the foreseeable future, the juvenile court shall hold a hearing to consider the best interests of the child and the safety of the community and shall issue all necessary and appropriate recommendations and orders. The juvenile court may, without limitation, order a division facility to accept and provide services to the child consistent with the provisions of NRS 433B.320 or determine whether to dismiss any petitions pending before the juvenile court and terminate the jurisdiction of the juvenile court. In determining whether to dismiss a petition and terminate its jurisdiction pursuant to this paragraph, the juvenile court shall consider:

(1) The nature and gravity of the act allegedly committed by the child, including, without limitation, whether the act involved violence, the infliction of serious bodily injury or the use of a weapon;

(2) The date the act was allegedly committed by the child;

(3) The number of times the child has allegedly committed the act;

(4) The extent to which the child has received counseling, therapy or treatment, and the response of the child to any such counseling, therapy or treatment;

(5) The extent to which the child has received education, services or treatment relating to remediating, restoring or attaining competence and the response of the child to any such education, services or treatment;

(6) Whether any psychological or psychiatric profiles of the child indicate a risk of recidivism;

(7) The behavior of the child while he or she is subject to the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, including, without limitation, during any period of confinement;

(8) The extent to which counseling, therapy or treatment will be available to the child in the absence of continued juvenile court jurisdiction;

(9) Any physical conditions that minimize the risk of recidivism, including, without limitation, physical disability or illness;

(10) The age, mental attitude, maturity level and emotional stability of the child;

(11) The extent of family support available to the child;

(12) Whether the child has had positive psychological and social evaluations; and

(13) Any other factor the juvenile court deems relevant to the determination of whether continued juvenile court jurisdiction will be conducive to the welfare of the child and the safety of the community.

4. As used in this section, “division facility” has the meaning ascribed to it in NRS 433B.070.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2031; A 2021, 2554)

1. If the juvenile court determines that a child is incompetent pursuant to NRS 62D.180, during the period that the child remains incompetent, the child may not be:

(a) Adjudicated a delinquent child or a child in need of supervision;

(b) Placed under the supervision of the juvenile court pursuant to a supervision and consent decree pursuant to NRS 62C.230; or

2. If the juvenile court determines that a child is incompetent and unable to attain competence in the foreseeable future pursuant to subsection 3 of NRS 62D.185, the child may petition to have his or her records sealed pursuant to NRS 62H.130.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2033; A 2021, 2555)

PROCEEDINGS INVOLVING INDIAN CHILDREN

NRS 62D.200 Full faith and credit given to proceedings of Indian tribe. Repealed. (See chapter 389, Statutes of Nevada 2023, at page 2262.)

NRS 62D.210 Procedure when proceedings involve placement into foster care; appointment of attorney.

1. If a proceeding conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title involves the placement of an Indian child into foster care, the juvenile court shall require that notice of the proceeding and any other notice required pursuant to this chapter be provided in accordance with NRS 125E.220.

2. If the juvenile court determines that the parent of an Indian child for whom foster care is sought is indigent, the juvenile court, as provided in the Indian Child Welfare Act:

(a) Shall appoint an attorney to represent the parent;

(b) May appoint an attorney to represent the Indian child; and

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1058; A 2023, 2257)

TIMING

NRS 62D.300 Power of juvenile court to expedite proceeding involving act committed against or witnessed by person less than 16 years of age.

1. Upon the request of the district attorney, the juvenile court may expedite any proceeding conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title that involves an act committed against a person who is less than 16 years of age or an act witnessed by a person who is less than 16 years of age.

2. In determining whether to expedite a proceeding, the juvenile court may consider the effect that a delay in the proceeding may have on the mental or emotional health or well-being of the person who is less than 16 years of age.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1058)

NRS 62D.310 Period for final disposition of cases.

1. Except as otherwise provided in this section, the juvenile court shall make its final disposition of a case not later than 60 days after the date on which the petition in the case was filed.

2. The juvenile court may extend the time for final disposition of a case if the juvenile court files an order setting forth specific reasons for the extension:

(a) Not later than 60 days after the date on which the petition in the case was filed; or

(b) Later than 60 days after the date on which the petition in the case was filed, if the juvenile court finds that the extension would serve the interests of justice. In determining whether an extension would serve the interests of justice, the juvenile court shall consider:

(1) The gravity of the act alleged in the case;

(2) The reasons for any delay in the disposition of the case; and

(3) The potential consequences to the child, any victim and the public of not extending the time for final disposition of the case.

3. The juvenile court shall not extend the time for final disposition of a case beyond 1 year from the date on which the petition in the case was filed.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1059)

NRS 62D.320 Continuances.

1. The juvenile court may continue any proceeding conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title for a reasonable period to receive oral and written reports or other competent, material and relevant evidence that may be helpful in determining the issues presented.

2. If a proceeding involves an act committed against a person who is less than 16 years of age or an act witnessed by a person who is less than 16 years of age, the juvenile court:

(a) May consider any adverse effects that a continuance of the proceeding may have on the mental or emotional health or well-being of the person who is less than 16 years of age; and

(b) May deny a continuance of the proceeding if the delay will adversely affect the mental or emotional health or well-being of the person who is less than 16 years of age.

3. If the juvenile court orders a continuance of a proceeding, the juvenile court shall make an appropriate order for the detention or temporary care of the child who is the subject of the proceeding during the period of the continuance.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1059)

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

NRS 62D.400 Electronic filing of certain documents.

1. A clerk of the court may allow any of the following documents to be filed electronically:

(a) A petition prepared and signed by the district attorney pursuant to NRS 62C.100 or 62C.110.

(b) A document relating to proceedings conducted pursuant to this title.

2. Any document that is filed electronically pursuant to this section must contain an image of the signature of the person who is filing the document.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1048)

NRS 62D.403 Issuance of order to join governmental entity or person as party to proceeding to enforce legal obligation to child. In each proceeding conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title, the juvenile court may issue an order to join any governmental entity or other person as a party to enforce a legal obligation of the entity or person to the child who is the subject of the proceeding if, before issuing the order, the court provides notice and an opportunity to be heard to the governmental entity or person.

(Added to NRS by 2021, 2553)

NRS 62D.405 Interpreters.

1. The juvenile court shall appoint at public expense an interpreter for a person with limited English proficiency in all proceedings conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title if the person with limited English proficiency is:

(a) The child who is alleged to be or has been adjudicated delinquent or in need of supervision;

(b) A parent or guardian of the child that is alleged to be or has been adjudicated delinquent or in need of supervision; or

2. If a certified or registered court interpreter is not available, the juvenile court shall appoint an interpreter in accordance with the rules adopted pursuant to paragraph (e) of subsection 2 of NRS 1.510.

3. As used in this section:

(a) “Interpreter” means a person who has a certificate or registration as an interpreter issued by the Court Administrator pursuant to NRS 1.510 and 1.520.

(b) “Person with limited English proficiency” has the meaning ascribed to it in NRS 1.510.

(Added to NRS by 2013, 1462; A 2017, 1146; 2023, 2610)

NRS 62D.410 Subpoenas.

1. In each proceeding conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title, the juvenile court may issue and, upon the request of any party to the proceeding, the clerk of the court shall issue subpoenas that require:

(a) The attendance and testimony of witnesses; and

(b) The production of records, documents or other tangible objects.

2. In each proceeding conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title that involves a child who is alleged to be delinquent or in need of supervision, the district attorney or the attorney for the child may issue subpoenas pursuant to NRS 174.315 and 174.335 that require:

(a) The attendance and testimony of witnesses; and

(b) The production of records, documents or other tangible objects.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1059)

NRS 62D.415 Use of instrument of restraint on child during proceeding.

1. An instrument of restraint may be used on a child during a court proceeding only if the restraint is necessary to prevent the child from:

(a) Inflicting physical harm on himself or herself or another person; or

(b) Escaping from the courtroom.

2. Whenever practical, the judge shall provide the:

(a) Child and his or her attorney an opportunity to be heard regarding the use of an instrument of restraint before the judge orders the use of an instrument of restraint.

(b) Prosecuting attorney an opportunity to be heard regarding whether the use of an instrument of restraint is necessary pursuant to subsection 1.

3. In making a determination pursuant to subsection 2 as to whether an instrument of restraint is necessary pursuant to subsection 1, the court shall consider the following factors:

(a) Any previous escapes or attempted escapes by the child.

(b) Evidence of a present plan of escape by the child.

(d) A history of self-destructive tendencies by the child.

(e) Any credible threat of an attempt to escape by a person not in custody.

(f) Whether the child is subject to a proceeding:

(1) That is not in the jurisdiction of the juvenile court pursuant to subsection 3 of NRS 62B.330; or

(2) For transfer or certification for criminal proceedings as an adult pursuant to NRS 62B.335, 62B.390 or 62B.400.

(g) Any other factor that is relevant in determining whether the use of an instrument of restraint on the child is necessary pursuant to subsection 1.

4. The determination of the judge pursuant to subsection 2 must contain specific findings of fact and conclusions of law supporting the determination.

5. If an instrument of restraint is used on a child, the restraint must allow the child limited movement of his or her hands to hold any document or writing necessary to participate in the proceeding.

6. As used in this section, “instrument of restraint” includes, without limitation, handcuffs, chains, irons and straightjackets.

(Added to NRS by 2015, 2016)

1. In each proceeding conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title, the juvenile court may:

(a) Receive all competent, material and relevant evidence that may be helpful in determining the issues presented, including, but not limited to, oral and written reports; and

(b) Rely on such evidence to the extent of its probative value.

2. The juvenile court shall afford the parties and their attorneys an opportunity to examine and controvert each written report that is received into evidence and to cross-examine each person who made the written report, when reasonably available.

3. In any proceeding involving a child for which the court has access to records relating to the custody of the child or the involvement of the child with an agency which provides child welfare services, the juvenile court may review those records to assist the court in determining the appropriate placement or plan of treatment for the child.

4. Except when a record described in subsection 3 would otherwise be admissible as evidence in the proceeding, the juvenile court shall not use a record reviewed pursuant to subsection 3 to prove that the child committed a delinquent act or is in need of supervision or for any purpose other than a purpose set forth in subsection 3. Except as otherwise provided in subsection 5, such records must not be disclosed or otherwise made open to inspection unless the records are admitted as evidence and used to determine the disposition of the case.

5. The juvenile court shall afford the parties and their attorneys an opportunity to examine and address any record reviewed by the juvenile court pursuant to subsection 3.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1059; A 2011, 1000; 2017, 747)

NRS 62D.430 Fees allowed for witnesses and other persons acting under order of juvenile court; limitations. In proceedings conducted pursuant to the provisions of this title:

1. A party to a petition must not be charged any court fees or witness fees.

2. A salaried officer of this state or of any political subdivision of this state is not entitled to receive any fee for the officer’s services or attendance in the juvenile court.

3. Any other person acting under orders of the juvenile court may receive a fee for service of process, for serving as a witness or for the person’s services and attendance in juvenile court. The fee must be paid:

(a) In an amount as provided by law for like services in cases before the district court; and

(b) By the county, after the juvenile court has certified the amount to be paid.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1048)

NRS 62D.440 Disclosure to victim of disposition of case; confidentiality of personal information pertaining to victim or parent or guardian of victim.

1. The prosecuting attorney shall disclose to the victim of an act committed by a child the disposition of the child’s case regarding that act if:

(a) The victim requests such a disclosure; or

(b) If the victim is less than 18 years of age, the parent or guardian of the victim requests such a disclosure.

2. All personal information pertaining to the victim or the parent or guardian of the victim, including, but not limited to, a current or former address, which is obtained by the prosecuting attorney pursuant to this section, is confidential and must not be used for a purpose other than that provided for in this section.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1060)

APPEALS

NRS 62D.500 Appeals.

1. Appeals from the orders of the juvenile court may be taken to the appellate court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to the rules fixed by the Supreme Court pursuant to Section 4 of Article 6 of the Nevada Constitution in the same manner as appeals in civil cases are taken.

2. For the purposes of this section, a decision to deny certification of a child for criminal proceedings as an adult is a final judgment from which an appeal may be taken.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1060; A 2003, 1512; 2013, 1745)