Kirkpatrick v. Edgar M.

Opinion

WRIGHT, C. J.

In this case we examine the limitation on the powers of juvenile court referees imposed by the provision in article VI, section 22 of the Constitution that trial courts may be authorized to appoint “officers such as commissioners to perform subordinate judicial duties.” A referee, acting without the consent of the minor or his counsel, held adjudication and disposition hearings, found that Edgar M., who was under the age of 18 years at the time of the alleged commission of the offense, had committed a criminal act, and made orders purporting to declare the minor a ward of…