Can a juvenile be questioned without a lawyer present?

A juvenile can be questioned without a lawyer present under certain circumstances because the laws regarding juveniles differ from those pertaining to adults. In many jurisdictions, including Arizona, a juvenile may waive their right to legal counsel, allowing law enforcement to question them without an attorney present, provided that the waiver is made voluntarily, intelligently, and with an understanding of the consequences.

It's important to note that police must ensure that the juvenile is aware of their rights, often referred to as Miranda rights. The circumstances can include the nature of the offense, the age of the juvenile, and whether they fully understand their right to have a lawyer present. Additionally, there may be specific policies or guidelines police must follow when questioning juveniles.

This understanding is crucial for both law enforcement and legal professionals, to ensure that the rights of juveniles are upheld while also allowing for effective law enforcement practices.