37.20 Warrant To Arrest - Children Act, 2001, Section 136(3)

What this form is for

• • When a court orders the arrest of a child under the Children Act 2001, s.136(3).
• • For breaches of a child protection order that require immediate police action.
• • When the court specifically directs a warrant rather than a summons or injunction.
• • If the child is under 18 and the alleged conduct relates to a criminal offence.
• • To document any special conditions (e.g., no contact, travel restrictions).

Use this form or another form?

Deadline or filing window

The warrant must be issued and served to the Gardaí as soon as practicable after the court decision, typically within 24 hours.

Before you submit

• • Child’s full name and correct spelling
• • Accurate date of birth
• • Correct address or last known residence
• • Statutory reference (Children Act 2001, s.136(3))
• • Clear description of the breach or offence
• • Judge’s signature and date
• • Attach the original court order
• • Copy sent to the appropriate Garda district
• • Retain a filed copy for audit

How to file this form

1. 1Obtain the court order authorising arrest.
2. 2Complete all required fields on Form 37.20.
3. 3Have the presiding judge sign and date the form.
4. 4Submit the original to the district court registry.
5. 5Provide a copy to the Gardaí via the court’s internal system or in person.
6. 6File a retained copy in the case file.

Known limitations

• • Only applicable to children (under 18).
• • Cannot be used for civil matters without a criminal element.
• • Requires a prior court order; cannot be issued ex‑parte.
• • Gardaí must receive the warrant before any arrest can occur.