Defendants under age 17 charged with an Alcoholic Beverage Code offense must appear with a parent in open court.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not required to appear with a parent
• D. Only if the judge orders

Answer: (A)

The important point is how juvenile court proceedings work and the role of a parent in those proceedings. A minor charged with an Alcoholic Beverage Code offense has the right to be present in open court and to have counsel, but parental presence is not automatically required for every appearance. The court can proceed with the minor’s appearance even if a parent is not present, provided due process is satisfied and the child is represented by counsel. A parent may be involved or required in certain steps or hearings, but the general rule is not that a parent must accompany the child at every open court appearance. So the statement is not correct.