Florida § 985.318 - Petition.
Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 985.318 — Petition., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 985.318. Petition.
(1) All proceedings seeking a finding that a child has committed a delinquent act or violation of law shall be initiated by the state by the filing of a petition for delinquency by the state attorney. (2) The petition shall be in writing and shall be signed by the state attorney under oath. (3) The state attorney shall represent the state in all proceedings in which a petition alleges delinquency. (4) When a petition has been filed and the child or his or her counsel has advised the state attorney that the truth of the allegations is admitted and that no contest is to be made of the allegations in the petition, the state attorney may request that the case be set for an adjudicatory hearing. If the child changes the plea at the adjudicatory hearing, the court shall continue the hearing to permit the state attorney to prepare and present the case for the state. (5) The form of the petition and its contents shall be determined by rules of procedure adopted by the Supreme Court.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 985.318
What does Florida Statutes § 985.318 cover?
Section 985.318 ("Petition.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Florida § 985.318?
A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 985.318" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Florida law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.
How does Florida § 985.318 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.