Legal Definitions - child in need of supervision

Child in Need of Supervision

This legal term refers to a minor (a person under the age of legal majority, typically 18) whose behavior or circumstances indicate a need for court intervention, but who has not committed a criminal offense that would classify them as a juvenile delinquent. Instead, their actions often involve non-criminal misconduct, a lack of parental control, or situations where their safety and well-being are at risk. The court's goal in these cases is typically to provide supervision, support, and guidance to the child and family, rather than imposing punishment.

Here are some examples:

• Example 1: Chronic Truancy

  A 15-year-old student, despite repeated warnings from the school and their parents' attempts to ensure attendance, consistently skips classes and misses entire school days without a valid excuse. The school has exhausted its internal disciplinary measures, and the parents feel they have lost control over their child's attendance.

  How this illustrates the term: The student's persistent truancy is not a criminal act, but it violates compulsory education laws and puts their future at risk. A court might declare them a "child in need of supervision" to mandate school attendance, counseling, or other interventions to address the underlying reasons for their truancy and ensure they receive an education.

• Example 2: Repeated Runaway Behavior

  A 13-year-old repeatedly runs away from home after disagreements with their guardians, often staying out overnight in unsafe environments or with strangers. While the child has not committed a crime, their actions place them in significant danger, and their guardians are unable to prevent them from leaving.

  How this illustrates the term: The child's repeated running away demonstrates a serious safety risk and a breakdown in parental control, but it is not a criminal offense in itself. Court intervention as a "child in need of supervision" could lead to placement in a more structured environment, family counseling, or other services designed to ensure the child's safety and address family dynamics.

• Example 3: Incorrigible Behavior and Substance Use

  A 16-year-old consistently defies reasonable household rules, stays out past curfew, and has been caught using marijuana and alcohol, though they haven't been charged with a criminal offense. Their parents have tried various disciplinary methods and counseling, but the child's behavior continues to escalate, causing significant concern for their well-being and safety.

  How this illustrates the term: The child's persistent disobedience, disregard for parental authority, and engagement in risky substance use, while not necessarily criminal acts leading to delinquency charges, indicate a serious need for external intervention. A court might intervene as a "child in need of supervision" to mandate drug counseling, therapy, or placement in a program that can provide the necessary structure and support to address their behavior and protect their health.