Rule 5:20-4.Necessary Parties
Last amended December 31, 1983 · Current through September 1, 2026 · Last verified September 8, 2026
Full Text of Rule 5:20-4
Amendment History
New Jersey publishes each rule’s amendment record in a “Note” beneath the rule. It is reproduced verbatim below; a “Source” line names the former rule the current one grew out of, and “R. (1969)” citations refer to the earlier numbering it replaced.
Note: Source--R. (1969) 5:8-8. Adopted December 20, 1983, to be effective December 31, 1983.
Plain-English Summary
A one-sentence rule with consequences throughout the chapter. The parents, guardians or other person having custody, control and supervision over the juvenile are necessary parties to every proceeding in all juvenile delinquency actions.
Being a party rather than a spectator is what entitles them to notice, to appear, and to be heard — and it is also why a warrant can issue against them under the warrant rule when they fail to appear, and why the summons must be served on them as well as on the juvenile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are parents parties to a juvenile delinquency case?
Yes. The parents, guardians or other person having custody, control and supervision over the juvenile are necessary parties to every proceeding in all juvenile delinquency actions.
What does that mean in practice?
They are served with the summons, must appear, and may be subject to a warrant under Rule 5:20-3 if they fail to appear as required.