Defendants under the age of 17 must appear personally with a parent or guardian in open court when charged with a Penal Code offense.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only if the judge orders
• D. Not required

Answer: (A)

In this situation, the rule is that a person under 17 who is charged with a Penal Code offense must appear in open court in person with a parent or guardian. This requirement is in place to ensure the minor has appropriate guidance and support during court proceedings, helps protect the child’s rights, and keeps the court informed about the family context that can affect decisions about counsel, disposition, or rehabilitation. The presence of a parent or guardian is expected to occur at these hearings rather than being optional, so the need to bring a parent or guardian isn’t something the judge can waive in general practice.