Do all juvenile crimes require a court hearing?

No, not all juvenile crimes require a court hearing in Washington. Typically, a juvenile crime refers to an act that would be considered a crime if committed by an adult. Depending on the severity of the offense, a juvenile may be offered the option of taking part in a diversion program or having their case dismissed. For minor offenses, such as shoplifting or other misdemeanors, diversion or deferred prosecution is often the first route taken. With this type of resolution, the juvenile will typically complete educational programs, community service, and/or make restitution to the victim while avoiding court proceedings. On the other hand, if the juvenile commits a more serious offense such as arson or assault, then the prosecutor may decide to file formal charges and proceed to court. In Washington, all juvenile crimes will go before a Juvenile Court judge upon filing of formal criminal charges. The juvenile and their parents will be present at the hearing and the judge will determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed with a formal trial, and decide if the juvenile is guilty or innocent. However, the juvenile will not face jail or prison time, but rather may be recommended for rehabilitative or punitive services, or even be placed in a detention center.

Related FAQs

What is a juvenile transfer hearing?
Does juvenile delinquency increase during certain times of year?
Are juvenile records public?
Are there any juvenile diversion programs focused on helping juveniles succeed after release?
Is the age of criminal responsibility different for juveniles than for adults?
Does juvenile crime have an effect on the surrounding community?
What type of community re-entry programs are available to juveniles?
What alternatives to the juvenile justice system exist?
What factors are used to determine a minor’s age under juvenile law?
What are some of the challenges facing juvenile justice experts?

Do all juvenile crimes require a court hearing?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts