What is Conduct Indicating a Need for Supervision in Texas?
Conduct indicating a need for supervision, or CINS, involves a fine-only offense other than a traffic violation.
If your child is facing a juvenile violation in Tarrant County, contact an experienced Fort Worth CINS juvenile attorney.
CINS violations often require varying levels of probation but don’t include juvenile detention, jail, or prison. These cases are tried in juvenile court.
It’s essential to consult with an experienced Fort Worth CINS juvenile attorney as soon as possible. Varghese Summersett’s Lisa Herrick is one of three Board Certified juvenile defense attorneys in Tarrant County.
In this post, we’ll explain what Texas considers conduct indicating a need for supervision, the potential consequences, and how CINS are different than delinquent conduct.
What happens if my child is accused of a CINS violation in Fort Worth?
Juveniles accused of a CINS violation or delinquent conduct are usually referred to juvenile court. Depending on the alleged violation, the child could be returned home or be charged with an offense.
CINS violations are less serious offenses than delinquent behavior, but could still result in probation or other actions required by Tarrant County Juvenile Services.
Having a dedicated Fort Worth CINS juvenile attorney guiding you and your child through the process is indispensable. Call Varghese Summersett to discuss your case with Lisa.
What are the major CINS violations in Texas?
Conduct indicating a need for supervision offenses are less serious types of juvenile offenses.
CINS are offenses that would not force adults to jail or prison if they committed the same offense, and adults would likely only receive a fine if convicted.
Although offenses such as truancy, alcohol or tobacco use, or violations of certain court orders could require a CINS designation, Texas classifies the following six behaviors as CINS offenses for juveniles in the Juvenile Justice Code:
Any fineable offense
Running away
Inhalant abuse
expulsion from school
Prostitution
Sexting
Conduct violating a court order for a child declared at risk
What are the consequences of CINS in Fort Worth?
CINS are not criminal offenses. However, juveniles do face legal consequences if adjudicated.
The state has a wide range of options if a juvenile is charged with conduct indicating a need for supervision.
A judge can issue probation but can’t send a juvenile to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department for detention for a CINS violation. Probation restrictions set by the judge typically depend on the seriousness of the infraction.
For offenses involving emotional, sexual, or behavioral issues, juveniles can be required to complete a diversionary program. If drugs or alcohol are involved, they could be required to enroll in a substance abuse treatment program.
To better understand the type of consequences for your child, consult with a top Fort Worth CINS juvenile attorney.
How is delinquent conduct different than CINS?
Texas law describes delinquent conduct as any state or federal law violation that is punishable by jail or prison for adults other than traffic offenses.
A juvenile offense classified as delinquent conduct is comparable to a felony or Class B misdemeanor or higher, such as driving while intoxicated, intoxication assault, sex offenses, or contempt of court.
Is your child facing legal trouble? Call Varghese Summersett.
If your child has been accused of a CINS violation or is facing a legal issue, contact a skilled Fort Worth CINS juvenile attorney as soon as possible. Lisa Herrick at Varghese Summersett is one of three Board Certified juvenile defense attorneys in Tarrant County.
She will protect your child’s rights and work to resolve the issue in the most favorable manner possible.
For a free consultation, call us at 817-203-2220.