This handbook is an attempt to summarize the most important aspects of juvenile law for a new practitioner, and to offer some additional ideas and strategies to any juvenile defense attorney. The goal is to help improve representation of juveniles across the state of Texas. References to useful books, cases, and statutes are included. The handbook is written with reference to the laws as of September 2002, but since juvenile law changes fairly often, attorneys are encouraged to reference the statutes frequently. (GCP)