Frequently Asked Questions About Youth Services
What is the definition of a runaway?
A youth that leaves home or another approved placement without parental consent.
What is an ungovernable youth?
A youth is ungovernable if they are under age 18 and fail to comply with reasonable requests of a parent or approved caregiver to the point the youth is beyond caregiver control.
Is runaway or ungovernable behavior against the law?
Legislation gives original jurisdiction over runaway and ungovernable youth to the Division of Juvenile Justice Services directly or through contract. This means that police can arrest youth for these offenses without the charge being referred to the Juvenile Court.
What is the age range for services?
Age 10-17
What if my child refuses counseling?
You may consult with Youth Services to get ideas on parenting your ungovernable youth.
How long can Youth Services provide services to parent(s) and youth?
Crisis counseling and time out has no limits attached until the child’s eighteenth birthday. On-going community counseling services are limited to 60 calendar days, which amounts to seven to nine 45-50 minute sessions with a therapist or counselor. Time limits can be extended depending on the situation, and will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
How long can I leave my child at Youth Services?
The average length of stay for youth in crisis is generally 3 hours or less. If the counselor with whom you meet believes it is appropriate, additional time may be authorized.
My child says he/she wants to become emancipated. What is that and how does it work?
Emancipation means a person is legally declared an adult. In Utah, that occurs at age eighteen or at the time of a minor’s marriage, with consent of the parent(s) or legal guardian.