The juvenile division of the circuit courts handles cases involving juveniles and their families relating to dependency/neglect, delinquency, truancy, paternity and FINS (Family in Need of Services).
When a complaint is filed, an intake officer reads the complaint to the juvenile whom the complaint has been filed against and his/her parents/guardians. The juvenile tells his/her side of the story and they all discuss the behavior and possible consequences.
The intake officer completes the investigation and sends it to the prosecuting attorney's office. An attorney reviews the information and decides whether or not to take the juvenile to court.
FINS stands for Family In Need of Services. A FINS petition is a lawsuit filed by a family member or other concerned person against a juvenile asking the court for help. The purpose of the FINS is to offer court assistance to the juvenile and the family. An at-risk juvenile is a family problem and usually requires family participation to help solve it.
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Erin A. Mata - Intake Officer
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220 South 4th, Suite A
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Van Buren, Arkansas 72956
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479-474-5049 Office
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479-471-3238 Fax
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479-471-3241 Fax
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emata@crawford-county.org
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