How long can a juvenile be held in temporary custody without a court order?

A juvenile can be held in temporary custody without a court order for no longer than 12 hours. This time frame is established to ensure that a juvenile's rights are protected and that they are not held unnecessarily. The law recognizes the need for expeditious procedures when dealing with minors, emphasizing that lengthy detention can be detrimental to their well-being and development.

Holding a juvenile for 12 hours allows enough time for law enforcement to determine the appropriate next steps regarding the juvenile's custody, whether that involves contacting parents or guardians, or making arrangements for further processing in accordance with the law. This time limit also serves to facilitate a prompt legal consultation, ensuring that juveniles receive the necessary protections afforded to them under the juvenile justice system.

This understanding of the time limitations underlines the importance of swift action in juvenile cases, as prolonged custody can inadvertently lead to further complications in the legal process.