T.J.L. v. State

T.J.L, a juvenile appellant, appeals the lower court’s order finding him in direct criminal contempt for certain behavior while appearing before the court. Appellant asserts both procedural and substantive errors in the lower court’s order. We find merit in both of appellant’s arguments, therefore, we vacate the order on review.

The transcript in this case reflects that after being directed to pull up his pants, appellant responded, “It won’t go up.” After an unhelpful comment by the bailiff, appellant’s mother forcibly brought appellant to the podium. The transcript reflects appellant then…