Counsel Continuity & Advocacy Across Phases

Pipeline 03F

Due process is a marathon, not a sprint. Youth need consistent legal representation from first appearance through step-down reviews and reentry.

Overview

This page documents how jurisdictions guarantee uninterrupted counsel: appointment timing, scope at each hearing type, language access, and advocacy during reentry planning and record sealing.

What We Track

Appointment & Notice (first 24–48h)

Counsel appointed/present within 24–48 hours of detention/admission
Youth/caregiver notice of rights and contact info for counsel
Conflict check completed; substitute counsel if required

Continuity

Same office/attorney across phases when feasible
Warm handoffs if reassigned (case notes, next steps, scheduled calls)

Hearing Coverage

Detention review(s) and initial hearings covered by counsel
Adjudication & disposition advocacy (reports, witness prep, mitigation)
Placement review, step-down, and reentry hearings attended

Language Access

Interpreter arranged & integrated for attorney–client meetings and hearings
Consent & advisals delivered in preferred language; documentation saved

Documentation

Court orders, findings, and action items captured (deadlines, responsible party)
Client communication logs (dates, modality, topics)

Role in the Pipeline

Initial hearing & detention review
- Confirm notice, counsel presence, interpreter as needed
- Argue release/ATD with detention-risk reference; preserve objections
Adjudication / disposition advocacy
- Discovery, motions practice, mitigation, and dispositional alternatives
Placement review & step-down decisions
- Challenge prolonged stays; propose less-restrictive placements
Reentry planning & post-disposition motions
- Coordinate education/health handoffs; seek modifications as progress is shown
Closure & record sealing support
- Advise eligibility; file/track sealing or expungement where applicable

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