Our Family Division manages records and proceedings for juvenile delinquency and dependency cases, offering critical administrative support to ensure a fair judicial process. Additionally, the division also handles smoking citations issued to minors, ensuring compliance with state laws.
For general information, you may contact the St. Johns County Clerk’s Office at (904) 819-3600 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday.
Juvenile delinquency is a legal proceeding addressing minors who have committed criminal offenses. These cases which differ procedurally from adult criminal courts, may include crimes such as robbery, assault, theft, vandalism, and burglary. The State Attorney’s Office initiates these cases, and juvenile courts retain jurisdiction until the individual’s 19th birthday or until the court order is satisfied.
All matters relating to a juvenile’s record are strictly confidential. Information can only be accessed in person by the juvenile, their legal parent or guardian, or their attorney of record upon presentation of proper identification.
No information will be disclosed over the phone.
Juvenile dependency is a legal process to safeguard the welfare of children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment by their parents or guardians. These cases are typically initiated by the Florida Department of Children and Families. The primary objectives are to reunify families, when possible, provide necessary services and resources to address underlying issues, and ensure permanent placement for children in a safe and stable environment that serves their best interests.
All matters relating to a minor are strictly confidential. Information can only be accessed in person by the juvenile, their legal parent or guardian, or their attorney of record upon presentation of proper identification.
No information will be disclosed over the phone.
If you or your child received a citation for possession of tobacco or nicotine products:
Persons under the age of 21 caught in possession, use or purchase of tobacco or nicotine products are committing a noncriminal violation. A citation may be issued by law enforcement, punishable as:
- 1st Violation: Pay $30 fine, or complete 16 hours of community service AND attend the approved anti-tobacco education course within 30 days.
- 2nd Violation within 12 weeks of the 1st Violation: Pay an additional $30 fine within 30 days.
- Additional offenses outside of 12 weeks from the 1st Violation are punishable in the same manner as the 1st Violation listed above.
A court-ordered license suspension may be imposed against the person listed on the citation if they fail to comply with these directives.
For more information on the required course, visit the EPIC Behavioral Health Care website at https://www.epicbh.org/tobacco/
St. Johns County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller