Rule 17 - Use of Restraints in Juvenile Court(a) Restraints, such as handcuffs, chains, irons, and other similar items, must not be used on a child during a juvenile court proceeding unless the court determines that the use of restraints is necessary because:(1) the child presents a substantial risk of:(A) inflicting physical harm on the child or another person; or(B) flight from the courtroom; or(2) of any other factor relevant to assessing risk in the court proceeding.(b) A party may request an opportunity to be heard on the necessity of restraints. The requesting party must provide reasonable notice to all parties. The court may hold a hearing to determine whether the use of restraints is necessary and must, when reasonable, make that determination before the child enters the courtroom and appears before the court.(c) If the court determines that the use of restraints is necessary, the court must: (1) order the least restrictive type of restraint necessary to prevent physical harm or flight; and(2) make findings of fact in support of the determination on the record or in a written order.(d) This rule does not apply to the use of restraints when transporting the child to or from the courtroom.Adopted November 30, 2022, effective 6/1/2023; amended May 30, 2023, effective 6/1/2023.Comment
Comment to 2023 change: This rule is adopted to implement Texas Government Code section 22.0135(b).