Dependency

Definitions

A "dependent child" is one who is in need of proper and effective parental care and control and has no parent or guardian, or the parent or guardian is not willing to exercise or is incapable of exercising care and control.

Or, a child who is destitute, or who is not provided with the necessities of life, including adequate food, clothing, shelter or medical care, or where the home is "unfit" by reason of abuse, neglect, cruelty or depravity by a parent, guardian or other person having care or custody of the child.

Or, a child under the age of eight years and who is found to have committed an act that would result in adjudication as a delinquent juvenile or incorrigible child if committed by an older juvenile or child.

Or, a child who is incompetent or not restorable to competency and who is alleged to have committed a serious offense ARS § 8-201.

If a child is found to be dependent, the parent(s) will be given an opportunity to participate in services so that reunification can occur.

Access a Dependency Petition here. 

Court Orientation for Dependent Youth (CODY)

A program has been established to help children become more familiar with the Juvenile Court System. This program is called Court Orientation for Dependent Youth or CODY and aims to empower youth ages 12-17 involved in a Dependency to advocate for themselves and provides them with information regarding this court process from the parties involved in their case.

We are back live with CODY.

Click below to register online for the next CODY.

Hope to see you there.

for the live CODY

2023 CODY dates 3/23 DUR, 5/24 SEJ, 7/27 DUR, 9/28 SEJ, 11/16 DUR

DUR- Durango Courthouse SEJ- Southeast Courthouse

Virtual CODY

Clip here to view the CODY clip.

CODY Workbook Link 

This link will take you to the Virtual CODY Workbook where you can learn more about the dependency process and your rights. It will define the role of key players and definitions. You can also use the form fillable book to track your journey with the dependency court and your case.