What methods are used to determine guilt in a juvenile delinquency case?
Determining guilt in a juvenile delinquency case in Washington involves several steps. The first step is the arraignment process. This is when a judge sets the hearing date and informs the juvenile of the charges against them and their right to an attorney. The next step is the adjudicatory hearing. During this hearing, the court hears and examines any evidence that may be presented in the case. Evidence may include witness testimony, expert opinions, and physical evidence. All of the evidence must be evaluated to determine if the juvenile is guilty. The third step is the dispositional hearing. During this hearing, the court considers the facts and evidence from the adjudicatory hearing and makes a decision about the juvenile’s guilt or innocence. Depending on the severity of the crime, the court may order the juvenile to be placed in a rehabilitation program, juvenile detention center, or other similar place. The fourth step is the sentencing hearing. During this hearing, the court will determine what the punishment for the juvenile’s crime should be. Possible punishments may include probation, community service, fines, or other measures. The court may also decide to sentence the juvenile to a longer period of confinement in a juvenile justice setting. The final step is the appeals process. If the juvenile believes that the court’s decision is not fair, they can file an appeal to have their case heard by a higher court. The higher court may decide to overturn the original decision, or they may choose to uphold it.
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