- The first step in a juvenile trial is the initial appearance.
- This is when the juvenile is brought before a judge to be informed of the charges against them and their rights.
- The judge will also decide whether to release the juvenile or keep them in detention until their trial.
Pretrial Hearing
- If the juvenile is not released, a pretrial hearing will be scheduled.
- At this hearing, the judge will hear arguments from both the prosecution and defense and decide whether there is enough evidence to proceed to trial.
Trial
- If the judge finds that there is enough evidence, the case will go to trial.
- Juvenile trials are similar to adult trials, but there are some key differences.
- For example, juvenile trials are closed to the public, and the juvenile has the right to a jury of their peers.
Sentencing
- If the juvenile is found guilty, the judge will sentence them.
- Juvenile sentences can include probation, fines, community service, and confinement in a juvenile detention facility.
- The judge will consider a variety of factors when sentencing a juvenile, including the nature of the offense, the juvenile's age and prior record, and the likelihood of rehabilitation.