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Learn what to do if your child was issued a discretionary warrant

A "discretionary warrant" makes it possible for your child to be released. The decision to release your child is made by the Probation Department at their discretion after the warrant is issued. If released, Probation can make sure the warrant is not active.

What is a promise to appear?

A Promise to Appear (PTA) is a document you and your child will sign as a promise that they will attend their next court hearing. The court hearing is scheduled within two court business days from the date of release.

What happens if you are unable to make contact with your child's probation officer while they are on-duty?

A Promise to Appear (PTA) is a document you and your child will sign as a promise that they will attend their next court hearing. The court hearing is scheduled within two court business days from the date of release.

Between 8am-5pm

The Juvenile Reception desk staff will contact the assigned PO* and ask the PO to make a decision about whether to release or detain your child. 

Please call Juvenile Reception at (408) 278-5800.

*or the PO's Supervisor or the Unit Officer of the Day

Between 5-11pm Monday-Friday
7am-11pm weekends and holidays

When the assigned PO is not available, the juvenile hall screening officer will make the decision about whether to release your child.

Please call Juvenile Reception at (408) 278-5818.

Between 11pm-7am daily

Youth who are arrested or self-surrender to Juvenile Hall during this time will be detained until a screening officer comes on duty the next morning.

Please call Juvenile Reception at (408) 278-5818.